Honda's ASIMO robot is not just smarter, but fitter, happier, more productive than ever before

Honda's AWESOME-O ASIMO robot has gone through some changes recently. New behavior control technology means that the robot can now make decisions on it's own, independent of human input. Honda says that ASIMO can choose its next move by combining long-term and short-term sensor data, including recognizing human gestures and speech, thanks to its onboard  set of visual and auditory sensors.

The robot, having recently shed 13.23 lbs (6 kg), can now run at a maximum of 5.9 mph (9 km/hr) and jump up and down indefinitely. ASIMO also now has independent finger movement control, making him able to handle much more delicate tasks.

Videos after the jump