KT launches two new AI serving robots

South Korea's KT Corp., said on Tuesday that it has unveiled two new AI service robots with upgraded features for enhanced driving stability and weight detection. The robots were developed in collaboration with Bear Robotics, LG Electronics Inc. and can be integrated with tablets, kiosks and in-store calling systems to process customer orders.

The Bear Robotics robot is equipped with a four-level tray that adjusts its height according to the weight of the food placed on it. It also has a 10.1-inch display for marketing and promotional purposes, making it ideal for Korean restaurants that serve a lot of side dishes and soups.

The LG Electronics robot focuses on driving stability, with LiDAR and 3D camera upgrades enabling it to transport food and beverages steadily on uneven tile floors. It also has a 10.1-inch display for guidance messages, photos and videos.

KT plans to expand its service robot market beyond restaurants to include indoor golf courses, Internet cafes and small parts factories.

With the launch of these new products, the number of "KT Brand" AI service robots has increased from three to five.

According to a UK market research firm BrandEssence Market Research and Consulting, the global service robot market is expected to grow to $140.94 billion by 2027 from $35.2 billion in 2021.

Write to Ji-Eun Jeong at jeong@hankyung.com