Seems like every week Japan comes out with a newer, cooler robot. They've got 'bots as receptionists and 'bots to clean apartment buildings — all we've done so far is slap a gun on one and send it to war.

Standing just less than four feet tall and weighing around 130 pounds, Toyota's TPR-Robina's bulbous body might look pretty awkward, but it has systems built in to guide it around obstacles. That'll come in handy when it's giving directions, and it can even scan the nametags of visitors to personalize its service. The best part: Say you liked Robina's guidance well enough you'd like to remember it always — the robot's jointed fingers allow it to hold writing utensils and sign autographs. TPR-Robina is scheduled to give directions at Toyota Kaikan Exhibition Hall on August 27th. — Kevin Hall

Toyota Press Release, via Pink Tentacle