Japan has unveiled an AI-powered “Human Washing Machine” that promises to wash and dry the body in just 15 minutes while monitoring vital signs and even adjusting to the user’s mood.
The futuristic pod, developed by Osaka-based Science Co., uses warm water, ultra-fine micro-bubbles, and high-pressure jets to gently but thoroughly clean the skin, while embedded sensors track pulse and other health data to personalize the experience in real time.
Inside the capsule, calming visuals are projected based on the user’s stress levels, turning the process into a spa-like ritual that refreshes both body and mind.
The idea first emerged at the 1970 Osaka Expo, when Sanyo Electric showcased an early prototype called the Ultrasonic Bath, but it never reached the public.
Now, more than five decades later, Science Co. has revived and modernized the concept using artificial intelligence and robotics, branding it the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki (Future Human Washing Machine).
The machine will make its public debut at Expo 2025 in Osaka, where 1,000 visitors will have the chance to experience it, before being adapted for hospitals, retirement homes, and eventually homes.
Seen as both a convenience and a wellness breakthrough, the invention highlights Japan’s drive to merge futuristic innovation with everyday living, offering a glimpse into the future of hygiene.
By Faith Mwende
