AI robot monk ‘Buddharoid' unveiled in Japan

Japanese researchers have unveiled a robot monk powered by Al that they say can dispense spiritual advice and maybe one day ease shortages of its human counterparts.

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Trained on even the most esoteric Buddhist scriptures, the University of Kyoto says the machine can answer sensitive questions that people may feel hesitant to share with other humans.

In addition, "Buddharoid", as the diminutive two-legged humanoid is known, can offer a sense of presence at religious sanctuaries in addition to voice communications.

"In the future, it is conceivable that they may assist with or replace some of the religious rituals traditionally performed by human monks," the university said in a statement on Wednesday.