Robots and other devices linked to social networking sites aren’t exactly anything new, but few have been in the form of tiny robot penguins, and even fewer have been tiny robot penguins with hats. That bit of mold-breaking comes courtesy of upstart Arimaz of Switzerland, which is now busy showing off its MyDeskFriend “Facebook companion” that’s set for release this September. As you can see in the video after the break, the bot is able to mosey about your desk without falling off and react to your voice like any good robot, but its real secret is that it can connect to Facebook and read your messages, or even be controlled (some may say tormented) by your real Facebook friends. Look for it to run $99 when it’s released.

Pal Technology Robotics, unveiled REEM-B, the new humanoid robot. At the Reem Island in Abu Dhabi in the presence of crowned prince, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 1.47 meter tall robot was presented last June 11, 2008.

REEM-B is able to grasp objects, walk dynamically, navigate within buildings, accept voice commands and recognize faces. The 60kg robot’s customized hardware and software development makes it a truly autonomous, self-contained service robot, able to communicate with humans and perform a number of unique and sophisticated tasks.

Reem B is able to carry up to 25% of its weight, making it the world’s strongest humanoid robot. “Reem B is equipped with an infrared laser on its feet, allowing it to find its way and generate autonomously a map of its environment onto a computer screen which guests are able to witness in real time.” said Mr Faconti.

Mr Basar Shueb, General Manager of Pal Technology said: “Pal Technology’s ultimate goal is to create a truly useful humanoid service robot that will be able to help humans in the future with sophisticated tasks. Reem B is clearly aligned with this vision, not only representing the next generation of humanoid robotics, but a robot designed to assist people and not replace them”.