New Humanoid Robot Store Set to Open in Hung Hom
Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po announced plans for a new 24-hour store in Hung Hom, which will feature a humanoid robot designed by a company from mainland China. This innovative store aims to assist both locals and visitors, according to reports.
Chan shared that this will be the first store of its kind outside mainland China. In a blog post, he expressed the government’s goal of improving public understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) by introducing hands-on technology that people can experience daily.
“We are committed to boosting AI development to support various industries and enhance our economy. At the same time, we want to provide practical conveniences for residents and create exciting new developments,” he stated.
Additionally, Chan revealed that a high-level committee focused on AI development has been established and will hold its first meeting later this month.
Francis Fong Po-kiu, an expert in technology and honorary president of the Hong Kong Information Technology Federation, emphasized that this project is a significant step toward raising public awareness and interest in AI.
“We have yet to fully integrate AI into everyday life,” he remarked. “Now, having a store supported by a humanoid robot allows people to interact with it while ordering items, seeing firsthand how it responds and completes those orders.”
The store will be run by Galbot, a Beijing-based company that has received investment support from the Hong Kong Investment Corporation. Galbot has already made waves in the autonomous retail sector with its “space capsule” stores at various locations in Beijing.
Earlier in March, Galbot G1 robots began their role as sales assistants at a pharmacy in Beijing’s Haidian District, where they can legally operate, provided the company holds the necessary distribution permits. This move highlights a growing trend of integrating AI into retail and customer service.
