SoftBank Robotics Unveils ‘Pepper+’ with AI Agent: Next-Gen Humanoid Robot
SoftBank Robotics has announced “Pepper+”, a new generation of its iconic humanoid robot Pepper, now equipped with AI agent functionality. The announcement was made on February 2, 2026, marking a significant evolution in the company’s robotics lineup.
AI Agent-Powered Tablet
The standout feature of Pepper+ is its upgraded chest-mounted tablet, which now includes built-in AI agent capabilities. One notable application is the “AI Customer Service Agent,” which uses the robot’s camera to recognize people and suggest products based on their clothing and conversation context. This AI system has been developed to replicate the communication techniques of professional sales representatives.
Enhanced Sensor Suite
Pepper+ features a comprehensive array of sensors:
- Head: Touch sensor, microphone, 2D camera, 3D sensor
- Body: Gyro sensor, hand touch sensors, infrared sensor, laser sensor, sonar sensor, bumper sensor
These sensors enable the robot to perceive and interact with its environment more effectively than ever before.
Upcoming Robot Applications
SoftBank Robotics is developing several applications for Pepper+:
- Office Access Control Solution: Combines facial recognition with smart key functionality
- Pepper Game Center: Provides interactive quiz experiences
- Your Story as a Musical: Performs songs and dances based on conversation content
- Impromptu Photographer: Generates poster images by combining backgrounds and dialogue
Pricing and Availability
Pepper+ is available through rental plans:
- Annual AI Utilization Plan: ¥79,800/month
- One-Month Short-Term Plan: ¥150,000
Physical AI Strategy
This launch aligns with SoftBank’s broader “Physical AI” strategy, which aims to combine artificial intelligence with robotics to create autonomous systems capable of performing complex tasks in real-world environments. The company has been aggressively expanding in this space, including its acquisition of ABB’s robotics division.