Japanese company Nisseieco Co., Ltd. Has unveiled a 'robot priest' that can operate at Buddhist temples and even recite Buddhist scripture during funeral ceremonies.
The humanoid robot named "Pepper" was seen in action wearing a Buddhist robe chanting sutras at Japan's largest funeral and cemetery expo.
While some express doubt that Pepper can truly fulfill religious obligations, the company notes that the robot would be a cheaper option for families in need of funeral services. Pepper is expected to cost around 50,000 yen ($457) per funeral compared to the typical cost of 240,000 yen ($2,194) for a human priest.
