Donut Robotics Unveils World's First Gesture-Controlled Humanoid Robot 'Cinnamon 1'

Introducing 'Cinnamon 1'

Donut Robotics Inc., a startup based in Tokyo, has made headlines by unveiling its latest humanoid robot, 'Cinnamon 1'. Touted as the first of its kind in the world, this innovative machine is equipped with cutting-edge gesture control technology, allowing for a new mode of interaction.

The 'Cinnamon 1' is multi-functional and features a bipedal design rooted in the company's proprietary technology. Currently, the humanoid operates using an AI designed to enhance its capabilities and will eventually transition to a fully domestic manufacturing process. Donut Robotics aims for 'Cinnamon 1' to dominate various sectors, including construction and data centers, aided by a partnership established last year with MBS Co., Ltd., headquartered in Yamaguchi. This partnership is expected to facilitate the introduction of humanoids into industries requiring automation.

A significant feature of 'Cinnamon 1' is its new 'Silent Gesture Control' system. This innovative control method allows users to operate the robot using hand signals and movements, without uttering a single word. The concept behind this technology embraces the idea that 'thoughts can be conveyed without speech'. This is particularly useful in noisy environments such as airports and construction sites or in quiet settings where children are asleep, addressing the common issue of voice commands failing to reach the robot due to background noise.

With approximately 430 million deaf individuals globally, 'Cinnamon 1' presents a user-friendly solution for those with hearing impairments, underscoring the inclusive vision that Donut Robotics is championing. The company believes that advancements in humanoid technologies can lead to deeper societal contributions and aims to further develop systems that enhance the interaction between humans and robots.

The Future of Humanoids: 'Cinnamon 1'

The 'Cinnamon 1' humanoid is not just a step forward in robotics but signifies a paradigm shift in how we consider the integration of humanoids into everyday life. With its scheduled release later this year, the robot is set to make waves in multiple industries. The introduction of the 'VLA (Vision-Language-Action)' AI technology will further enable 'Cinnamon 1' to perform tasks autonomously, with plans to replace human labor in factories and on construction sites by 2026.

Donut Robotics, founded in 2014, has consistently pushed the boundaries in humanoid development and gained recognition by being part of the 'Haneda Airport Robot Experiment Project' in 2017. Their award-winning efforts are set to be acknowledged at the upcoming 'EY Innovative Startup 2024', where they will be recognized in the robotics category.

The attention this company has garnered from various media outlets, both domestically and internationally, speaks volumes about the potential impact of 'Cinnamon 1' and similar projects in the evolving realm of robotics. As Donut Robotics continues its journey, it remains optimistic about the contributions of humanoid robots in enhancing everyday experiences and work environments, making technology more accessible to a broader audience.