Sony to scrap AIBO
February 2, 2006The world's first mass-marketed robot, Sony's Aibo, recognizes its owners' faces and is programmed for sympathy, like a canine companion.
Japan tests snow rescue robot after snowiest winter in decades
February 2, 2006Enryu's five-meter arms are powerful enough to lift a small passenger car, and its hands are almost as dexterous as a human being's.
Japanese theatrical troupe revs up for 'Metal Macbeth'
February 2, 2006A Japanese theatrical troupe on Friday announced it would stage "Metal Macbeth," a drama version of Shakespeare's masterpiece which will be set in 2206.
Oscar-nominated director warns of Japanese military resurgence in new documentary
February 2, 2006Japan's plans to change its pacifist constitution could rekindle historical animosities in Asia and lead to another war in the region, an Oscar-nominated director warns in a new documentary.
Crime victims no longer required to write down their address when they sue offenders
February 2, 2006Crime victims and bereaved families are no longer required to write down their addresses when they sue criminals to avoid retaliation, Supreme Court officials said.
30% of those who get nervous in public may be suffering from stress disorders
February 2, 2006Roughly 30 percent of those who tend to become nervous when they appear in front of numerous people may be suffering a mental illness called social anxiety disorder (SAD), a survey conducted by a pharmaceutical company has suggested.
NPA to introduce dementia tests for elderly drivers
February 2, 2006The National Police Agency (NPA) has decided to introduce dementia tests for elderly drivers as a growing number of the aged are involved in car accidents, officials said.
Yakitori shop worker grilled for trying to abduct schoolgirl by pretending to be cop
February 2, 2006A man who attempted to abduct an elementary schoolgirl by pretending to be a police officer has been arrested, Tokyo police said.
More school bags sold at department stores equipped with anti-crime devices
February 2, 2006Department stores have turned to selling crime-prevention equipment after a growing number of crimes have targeted schoolchildren in recent years.
Japanese skaters arrive in Turin with high hopes
February 2, 2006TURIN, Italy -- Japanese speed skaters started to arrive here on Wednesday to take part in the winter Olympic Games.
New film's lead resembles fallen Livedoor boss Horie
February 2, 2006Film director Kichitaro Negishi said he wanted Takafumi Horie, the founder of scandal-tainted Livedoor Co., to see his latest film because the circumstances surrounding the fallen businessman are similar to those of its lead actor.
Elementary school student apprehended over arson attacks
February 2, 2006BEPPU, Oita -- Police have taken an elementary school student into custody for allegedly starting a fire at a park, officers said.
DPJ member Kimata in hot water for assaulting woman at restaurant
February 2, 2006Upper House member Yoshitake Kimata has been questioned by police for assaulting a woman at a restaurant, party sources said.
Pub chain, employees face charges over school kids' big drinking binge
February 2, 2006NAGOYA -- The head of a pub chain outlet, several employees and the company that runs the chain are in hot water for allowing 34 high school students to drink more than 100 bottles of beer and sake, police said.