Rocobo perfects the "annoying robot" concept

The Roboco is a robot toy that seems to exist for no other purpose than to annoy flesh-based lifeforms, with its whole premise being to "react" to the owner's mood. For example, if you're angry and shout at it, it'll flap its wings and aggravate you even more: if you're nice and stroke it, it'll aggravate you again by "singing," or displaying a smile graphic -- let's just say at least it can't compose lullabies. At ?1,130 (under $9) it won't exactly break the bank, but if you're just going to throw it out the window within five minutes of buying it, you might as well hold onto your bucks.

[Via TechDigest]

Massive Gigantor statue coming to Japan

Erecting an 18-meter high robot statue in Japan may not shock and awe as it would in the US of A, but a brightly colored, 70-ton Gigantor is still apt to catch quite a few eyes. Kobe, Japan is set to be the home of the mammoth tribute statue, which will simultaneously commemorate the life of the late Mitsuteru Yokoyama and the revitalization of the surrounding areas since the 1995 Kobe earthquake. The project will cost an estimated ¥135 million ($1.09 million) and should be completed next Spring, but how it will affect property values (or tourism from fanboys and girls) remains to be seen.

[Via SciFiTech]

Toyota's TPR-Robina facility guide leads you straight to your doom

You know Toyota, adding a fancy haircut and skirt to your latest meet 'n greet robot doesn't make us any less afraid. Note how the "fingers" on Tipper (with gore) Robina's hands are perfectly aligned to hold your face like an organic bowling ball. Just sayin's all.

[Via WaziWazi]