Visitors to the shopping center will no longer have to constantly ask for directions to find a specific store or brand. The technology of AI-based robots has been introduced in Jaipur for the first time in the retail sector. In the World Trade Park, a shopping robot named 'W' started operating on Saturday, which will help guests find brands and stores, as well as reach them.
'W' is designed as a navigation assistant in the shopping center. On its interactive touchscreen, visitors can view information about the brands and stores present in the mall. After selecting the desired store or brand, the robot will escort the visitor to the destination. If it is necessary to go up to another floor, it will also indicate the way to the nearest elevator or escalator.
The robot's functionality goes beyond simply indicating store locations; it supports product search. This allows the visitor to search for an item according to their needs and then receive navigation to the corresponding store among available options. The robot can communicate with visitors through its screen, providing them with the necessary information.
Currently, four 'W' robots have been deployed, located on the lower and upper floors of the north and south blocks. According to the plan, this service is scheduled to be expanded to other floors, including the parking lot, by the end of this year. Its interactive system will be available to visitors of all ages, from children to the elderly.
The 'W' robot is equipped with AI-based navigation technology and an obstacle avoidance system. This allows the robot to move towards the set goal while avoiding any obstacles inside the shopping center. It weighs about 65 kilograms and is equipped with an automatic charging function. The robot was manufactured by Kody Robots.
Ashmita Bartaria, Director of WTP, noted that this marks the beginning of using AI and robotics technologies in Jaipur. She announced plans to introduce humanoid robots in 2027, which will have a human appearance and be designed to behave like people.
Thus, the use of AI in commercial spaces is no longer limited to digital screens or online searches. Such robots, combining navigation, product search, and physical movement, could become part of the visitor experience in large public and commercial areas in the future.