Honda’s human-shaped robot can now run faster, balance itself on uneven surfaces, hop on one foot and pour a drink. Some of its technology may even be used to help out with clean-up operations at the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant.
Honda’s demonstration of the revamped "Asimo" this month earlier at its Tokyo suburban research facility was not only to prove that the bubble-headed childlike machine was more limber and a bit smarter; it was a way to try to answer some critics that Asimo, first shown in 2000, had been of little practical use so far, proving to be nothing more than a glorified toy and cute showcase for the Honda Motor Co. brand.
(Source: Japan Retail News)