Locally developed robots attract diners to Karachi restauran

The robots, named Robia and Jojo, have been introduced at The Sicilian restaurant by engineer Syed Osama Aziz, who talso established the eatery. KARACHI: Two robots developed by a Pakistani engineer are serving food and greeting customers at a Karachi restaurant, attracting families and curious visitors eager to experience automated dining. The robots, named Robia and Jojo, have been introduced at The Sicilian restaurant by engineer Syed Osama Aziz, who also established the eatery. Built largely using locally manufactured components, the machines move between tables carrying food orders and interact with customers through electronic voices. Robia greets visitors, introduces herself and provides information about available menu items. Both robots feature rounded white heads, dark visors resembling motorcycle helmets and blinking red LED eyes. They also wear black shawls styled after the traditional dupatta. Aziz developed the machines through his robotics company, Cobot, with assistance from friends and a limited number of electronic components imported from abroad. The engineer designed the robots' circuit boards and programmed their operating systems at his workshop in Multan, Punjab. He said developing robots in Pakistan presented challenges because specialised equipment and electronic components were not always readily available in the local market. Despite these difficulties, Aziz managed to assemble the machines using predominantly locally sourced materials. The robots currently perform relatively simple tasks, including transporting food from restaurant staff to customers' tables. Diners must collect their orders from the robots' trays themselves or wait for a human employee to assist them. Aziz plans to introduce more advanced capabilities, including camera-based processing and image recognition technology. The proposed upgrades would allow the robots to recognise returning customers, remember their previous orders and recommend dishes based on their preferences. Although robotic restaurant staff have become increasingly common in countries such as China and Japan, the technology remains relatively unusual in Pakistan. At The Sicilian, the robots have become a major attraction, particularly among families with children. Customers frequently photograph the machines, take selfies and interact with them as they move around the restaurant. One customer, Ahmer Zameer, said he was particularly impressed by the robots' ability to introduce themselves and explain the available food options. Another visitor, Sonia Dilosker, expressed appreciation for their appearance and automated approach to serving customers. Restaurant employees said the introduction of the robots had increased customer interest and helped attract visitors from different parts of Karachi. A staff member, Hellen, said the restaurant had experienced growth in business since the robots were introduced, with some customers travelling considerable distances specifically to see them. The machines continue to operate alongside human employees, who remain responsible for preparing orders and assisting customers with tasks the robots cannot yet perform.