Honda's launched a new version of its Asimo robot -- an ideal Christmas present, we'd have thought. The improved robot can, said Honda, "pursue key tasks in a real-life environment and features an advanced level of physical capabilities."
It can now walk with a person while holding hands, give and receive objects, and walk while using a trolley or cart. Plus, the development of a "total control system" enables it to perform a series of everyday human tasks, such as those of an information guide.
Honda said its R&D team's goal is "to create a truly useful humanoid robot which possesses both intelligence and physical capabilities at a high level", and this is one step in that direction.
It can also run in circles or a straight line -- but you won't have a problem outrunning it if it turns nasty: its Vmax is under 4mph.
Wait till it starts setting off Gatsos...
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