[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9JyDQlHo1A&fs=1&hl=en_US] The Telenoid R1 has basic human features, added to create an element of realism, designed to change the dynamic of long-distance communication via the internet. This little guy, while rather creepy at times, actually mimics the actions of the remote user whose movements are tracked with a special software and delivers their voice to the other user... kinda like a large phone.
So why the strange look?
The robot was given just enough features to create a physical presence, but looks androgynous and ageless so that it has appeal to all ages and genders.
Read more about it on Pinktentacle.com