The upgraded humanoid robot “Pepper” by adding Watson technology Qorus Banking Innovation Awards 2016 - Winner

The concept of this innovation is to provide a "Digital Omotenashi*" using humanoid robots with sophisticated and friendly manner. The diversification of the market and rapid innovation of FinTech led us to step up to the next stage. This time , we announced to use a new common robotics platform designed for cognitive systems for “Pepper”. Accordingly, “Pepper” can understand what customer says and communicate more smoothly. This service is the first trial of its kind in the world, which is a first step of "Digital Omotenashi*"in anticipation of 2020. The inspiration came from the Japanese anime like "Astro boy(Mighty Atom) or DORAEMON" Comics and anime have always been influential in Japan and became integral parts of modern Japanese life and culture, we ought to think that "Pepper" could provide the next generation service. We had many departments involved to implement this project such as Corporate Communications, Strategic Planning Group, Legal Division, Compliance Group, Accounting Division and companies outside the group. We have received many positive responces and feedback in surveys and SNS. *Omotenashi: Japanese mind of hospitality and customer service, offering service without expectation of rewards.