Can this US$1 million robot revive Buddhism? Japan temple puts faith in Mindar the priest

The android Kannon, based on the Buddhist deity of mercy, preaches sermons at Kodaiji temple in Kyoto.

Its human colleagues predict that with artificial intelligence it could one day acquire unlimited wisdom.

“This robot will never die, it will just keep updating itself and evolving,” said priest Tensho Goto. “That’s the beauty of a robot. It can store knowledge forever and limitlessly.

“With AI we hope it will grow in wisdom to help people overcome even the most difficult troubles. It’s changing Buddhism,” Goto said.

The adult-sized robot, named Mindar, began service earlier this year and is able to move its torso, arms and head. But only its hands, face and shoulders are covered in silicone to replicate human skin.