KDDI and Avita Partner to Develop Humanoid Robots for Real-World Service Roles

KDDI and Avita have announced a strategic partnership to develop humanoid robots powered Avita will contribute expertise in avatar creation, conversational AI and remote operation technologies. KDDI will provide communications infrastructure and data systems to support real time operation. The companies say the goal is to combine AI software with humanoid hardware so the machines can interact naturally with people in service roles. The partners previously worked together on remote customer service using digital avatars. Those systems operated at Lawson convenience stores and au Style and au retail shops. The new project expands the approach to physical robots that can move freely and communicate through gestures and facial expressions. The effort is motivated A concept humanoid model was displayed at MWC Barcelona, held from March 2 to March 5. The design draws on work KDDI and Avita plan to begin commercial trials in autumn 2026 at real customer facing facilities, with possible use at au stores. The partnership also launches Avita's new humanoid and Physical AI business unit, which will handle development, sale and operation of the robots.