Rain, internet outages hit first day of Hong Kong’s robot convenience stores
Heavy rain and internet outages have marred the first day of operations for Hong Kong’s fully automated convenience stores, but visitors say they appreciate the new robot shop manager’s work. The “Galbot Stores”, operated by wheeled humanoid robots, opened two outdoor outlets in Hung Hom and Wan Chai and an indoor unit in Kai Tak on Tuesday, marking the city’s first fully automated retail…
Rain and internet outages hindered the inaugural day of Hong Kong's fully automated convenience stores, dubbed "Galbot Stores," but visitors expressed appreciation for the innovative robot shop manager. Threewheeled humanoid robots operated three outlets: two outdoor locations in Hung Hom and Wan Chai, along with an indoor unit in Kai Tak.
Shelves stocked an assortment of snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs, ranging in price from approximately HK$10 to HK$139 (US$1.27 to US$17.73). Customers engaged with the robot by placing orders on a screen, paying via card, WeChat, Alipay, or China UnionPay, and retrieving their purchases. The robot, named "Xiao Gai," also allowed casual conversations with customers.
Despite heavy rain, some visitors stopped to photograph the stores on the new waterfront in Hung Hom, though the weather discouraged lingering. The Hong Kong Observatory issued a No 1 typhoon warning signal due to Tropical Depression Saudel approaching the eastern Guangdong coast. The indoor outlet in Kai Tak was spared from the rain but faced internet testing until noon.
Among the customers, many found the novelty of interacting with the robot manager compelling. Chau On-ta-yueng, an 81-year-old resident of Hung Hom, appreciated the store's presence in the area, while Vincen Leyden, a 60-year-old British tourist, praised the service and smooth Cantonese conversation with the robot.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
