social robot

An ordinary robot can do the job or solve the problem but is likely to be a piece of disruptive technology in the home and the workplace. A social robot has skills in communication and awareness, in emotional and social intelligence, that make it easier for us humans to work with.  Social robotics is the developing academic field of study that pursues the goal of making the robot polite, communicative and friendly.

So when we eventually find that it is a robot who can assist us in shops, airports, hospitals, and so on, we will find that it is a robot with a pleasant smile and an urbane manner who is sensitive to our moods and needs.