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A Hardworking High-tech Pal

Toss out that alarm clock. For just $14,300, you can buy a bright yellow buddy who will wake you up and schedule your day. The high-tech helper, a robot called Wakamaru, goes on sale in Japan this month.

The busy 'bot can memorize its owner's schedule, recognize up to 10 faces and understand 10,000 words. It can even respond to spoken commands. When linked to a mobile phone, it will alert homeowners to a burglary.

The Japanese company that designed Wakamaru hopes to sell at least 100 by October 31. According to the company, "This is the opening of an era in which human beings and robots can coexist."

Next: A City Surrounded