Japan has always been an innovator when it comes to technology. It seems that there isn't anything that Japanese innovators cannot accomplish from vending machines, parking space, toilets, and now a companion for the lonely hearts.
GateBox is another Japanese innovation which uses a hologram to project a virtual wife that can interact with its owner. Gatebox is home to Azuma Hikari, the very first virtual wife created by Vinclu. Inc. Azuma based on the description can be considered as a learning AI which will speak to her master "based on her own judgment." Azuma will wake up its owner each morning and greets him when he comes home at night. Azuma can also interact with its owner if she recognized the language. GateBox also features a chat functionality wherein Azuma sends messages to its owner and "will definitely want him to come early." It was also noted on the web page of Gatebox that Azuma will get lonely if the owner comes home late.
Gatebox is equipped with a camera, microphone, touch buttons, motion sensor, warmth and moisture sensor, and luminance Sensor. The device weighs a total of 5 Kg or 11 pounds. Gatebox can also connect to the internet, it is also equipped with human detecting sensors and cameras which can recognize the movements and the face of its owner. Gatebox can also operate household electronics and can connect to its owner's smartphone and laptop.
With all the features and capabilities of Gatebox, the price tag is also a matched for single people. Gatebox doesn't come cheap with its Y298,000 which is roughly equal to $2,600. Even though not everyone is impressed with this new device, the tech is hard to ignore. Gatebox concept alone is pretty impressive, an innovation which could become the first step towards communication thru holographic projection.
