New robot at Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas offers directions and can hum a little
Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas guests may find themselves greeted by the hotel’s newest staff member: a robot named Pepper.
“She” arrived at the hotel’s 23rd floor Sky Lobby earlier this month with the title of technical ambassador. Pepper can answer questions about the hotel and give directions, as well as entertain visitors by dancing or telling a story.
The 4-foot-tall robot with oversize eyes is near the concierge desk. Her job is to engage with guests. As people move through the lobby, the robot will call them over and ask whether they need information or assistance.
Pepper can draw attention by gesturing, humming a tune or even by clearing her throat.
“Not only can Pepper handle information requests but will also serve as a source of entertainment that we hope will provide an enjoyable element of surprise for guests of all ages,” Donald Bowman, the hotel’s general manager, said in a statement.
The robot can personalize her verbal communication by detecting a guest’s facial, body and voice cues. She can determine age, gender and even mood, according to the hotel.
Pepper also is fine with posing for selfies.
The robot is the creation of SoftBank Robotics Europe, a French company.
ALSO
5 places in Las Vegas where you can find snow, ice, Merlin and holiday lights
Great turkey trots (including America’s very first one) to run on Thanksgiving Day
Sign up for The Wild
We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
