Virtual assistance

If robots can take over the annoying things in life like queuing, let the invasion begin

Apple CEO Tim Cook talks about the new iPhone 6S. Monica Davey / EPA

Waiting in line is an annoying, time-consuming, but sometimes necessary aspect of life. In Sydney this week, dozens of people queued up to be among the first Australians to buy the Apple iPhone 6S. Among them, in fourth position, was a robot called Lucy. Yes, a piece of technology was lined up for the chance to buy another piece of technology.

Lucy looks like an iPad attached to a Segway. The display is the face of Lucy Kelly, who was sitting comfortably at her desk in a nearby office while her virtual self was waiting outside the Apple Store. Her namesake robot is one of six used by her company, a media agency, for tasks including teleconferencing with absent staff.

We won’t be surprised if this catches on in the UAE. Robots could do a range of tedious chores, from queuing to buy off-plan property, to waiting at the vehicle registry office or for deliveries. And, when on holiday, what better way to reserve a deck chair at the pool or beach than to have it minded by your very own android?