Hanson Robotics has created a “little sister” version of AI robot Sophia, intended to help young girls learn to code and gain an understanding of STEM subjects.
Little Sophia is a 14-inch tall AI robot with humanoid features and a skin-like surface that covers the robotics in her head. She will be the first commercial robot with a face that resembles a human.
Created by Hanson Robotics founder David Hanson, she is made to function as a learning companion for children aged seven to 13 years old, especially girls, to learn STEM subjects – science, technology engineering, mathematics.
“We believe that Little Sophia can help to introduce STEM, coding and AI to children – especially girls – in a fun, safe, inspiring and interactive way that might help to make a small difference in reversing current trends,” explained the brand.
Launched on Kickstarter last week, Little Sophia, much like the original Sophia robot, is based on a foundation of three humanistic traits – creativity, empathy and compassion.
Little Sophia only consumer robot with human-like face
She has a wide range of facial expressions, as well as inbuilt facial tracking and recognition technology, to make her appear as human as possible.
“Little Sophia has the same endearing personality as Sophia the Robot. She is intensely curious, refreshingly innocent, and uniquely playful,” said the Hanson Robotics.
“She is the only consumer robot with a human-like face who can generate a wide range of human facial expressions. She not only responds to commands but also actively engages in conversations.”
Robot designed to “encourage future scientists”
Using Little Sophia’s in-built software and included children-friendly tutorials through Hanson’s AI Academy, users can learn through a series of stories, jokes, songs and games.
[Source: “Hanson Robotics’ Little Sophia is a coding companion for young girls” published by Dezeen.com]Photo Credits: Dezeen.com
