KiQ Unveils New Forms of Interaction in the AI Era at Expo 2025 Osaka

KiQ's Innovative Presentation at Expo 2025

As the countdown to Expo 2025 in Osaka approaches, KiQ, a cutting-edge creative studio based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has announced its significant involvement in the signature pavilion themed “The Future of Life,” directed by renowned producer Hiroshi Ishiguro. Scheduled to open on April 13, 2025, the pavilion will showcase a range of humanoid avatars designed to embody new forms of etiquette and interaction in the age of AI.

The Essence of Embodied Intelligence

KiQ operates with a mission dedicated to creating designs that resonate with humanity. Their approach intertwines art, science, and technology, focusing on the development of non-verbal communication and the embodied knowledge that informs human interactions. By leveraging Japan's unique culture, rich in physical expressions, KiQ has initiated various projects, including scholarly publications and prototype development, advancing the application of this knowledge across UI/UX, spatial design, and robotics.

Humanoids Presented at the Pavilion

Yamatoroid

The Yamatoroid is an android avatar symbolizing Japan’s rich heritage. Named after Yamato, which signifies the spirit of Japan and hailing from the historical site of Nara, this humanoid will serve as a physical representation of Japan's past and cultural identity.

Scene Scenario: In a setting where a grandmother expertly utilizes her physical avatar to try on various parts, the design emphasizes an aesthetic of beauty from 50 years into the future. The persona within the humanoid is crafted to exhibit graceful movements, reminiscent of traditional Japanese beauty, all while engaging with visitors in a personalized manner.

Asukaroid

Asukaroid represents the youthful spirit of Japan, drawing its name from the Asuka period, a time renowned for its sophisticated architecture and art, including the Horyu-ji temple. This humanoid is designed as a child’s avatar, encapsulating the love for cultural heritage and technological advancement.

Scene Scenario: Set in 2068, a young girl is depicted enjoying an outing with her father using the android as her physical companion. Each of her movements reveals a playful essence and autonomy, designed to express her innate desire to explore the world freely.

The Future of Life: Mahoroba

In a section aimed at envisioning human evolution through technology, visitors will encounter a futuristic space inspired by the dreams of a world 1,000 years from now. Enveloped in a mystical ambiance of sound and light, guests will witness how humans transcend physical constraints, embodying a level of grace and elegance in their interactions. Each humanoid character is designed to engage with visitors through sensory dialogues beyond verbal communication.

Vision for the Future

KiQ's leader, Akane Kikuchi, firmly believes that altering our behaviors can lead to transformative futures. She emphasizes the importance of reconstructing cultural essence to create new values through innovative designs. Producer Hiroshi Ishiguro adds, “Through technology, humans extend their capabilities. Our harmonious coexistence with robots and AI expands the horizons of human potential.”

Expanding Globally with Shosa Lab

Following its initiatives at Expo 2025, KiQ is gearing up to launch the 'Shosa Lab' in both Japan and the U.S., fostering collaboration with research institutions and companies. The lab will focus on R&D, prototype development, and spatial/UI design support rooted in embodied knowledge, aiming at globalization and the international market tailored for bodily expressions as cultural assets.

About KiQ

KiQ is a lab-based creative studio located in Tokyo, dedicated to integrating art, science, and technology under the banner 'Design for Humanity.' They aim to leverage human sensibilities and cultural knowledge in their projects across both domestic and international landscapes.

About Shosa Lab

Shosa Lab is devoted to exploring non-verbal communication based on human behaviors and embodied knowledge through scientific, design, and implementation frameworks. The lab collaborates on various projects with universities and businesses, impacting areas like robotics, spatial design, and UI/UX.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to KiQ’s Public Relations Office:
Email: info@kiq.ne.jp
Phone: 03-6421-0575
Website: https://kiq.ne.jp

The introduction of KiQ's humanoids at Expo 2025 not only highlights technological advancements but also represents a cultural movement, blending tradition with the future in a harmonious dance that promises to redefine human interactions.