ASIA-PACIFIC 
Robot mascots a big hit for Beijing
Thursday, 24 July, 2008
One of the five robots unveiled at Beijing airport to welcome Olympic visitors (Getty Images)
WATCH A VIDEO
Five robots modelled on the official Olympic mascots have become Beijing airport's unlikely new attractions.
The five 'friendlies' or Fuwa, have been entertaining people at the new airport since they were unveiled a little over a week ago.
IN-DEPTH: Road to Beijing minisite
The machines, which took two years to design and build, were created to reflect China's diverse wildlife.
They are modelled on four animals: a fish, swallow, panda and Tibetan antelope.
The fifth is a representation of the Olympic flame.
'Representing China'
Visitors have been enthusiastic about the new additions to the airport terminal.
"I think the mascot robots represent our country," passenger Li Jia says.
"They are so smart, you can take pictures with them or talk to them."
The robots are capable of greeting visitors in 12 different languages, and can recite over 100 simple phrases in English and Mandarin.
Source: Reuters/SBS
The five 'friendlies' or Fuwa, have been entertaining people at the new airport since they were unveiled a little over a week ago.
IN-DEPTH: Road to Beijing minisite
The machines, which took two years to design and build, were created to reflect China's diverse wildlife.
They are modelled on four animals: a fish, swallow, panda and Tibetan antelope.
The fifth is a representation of the Olympic flame.
'Representing China'
Visitors have been enthusiastic about the new additions to the airport terminal.
"I think the mascot robots represent our country," passenger Li Jia says.
"They are so smart, you can take pictures with them or talk to them."
The robots are capable of greeting visitors in 12 different languages, and can recite over 100 simple phrases in English and Mandarin.
Source: Reuters/SBS
