MasterCard revealed what it said is the first commerce application for SoftBank Robotics’ robot called Pepper – working in a pizza restaurant.

Pizza Hut Asia will be piloting Pepper for order-taking and engaging with users in-store by the end of 2016.

The aim is to provide a more fun experience than is available for customers from self-service machines and kiosks, said MasterCard, hence downplaying accusations that Pepper would be taking any humans’ jobs.

Payments are made via the credit card giant’s MasterPass payments app.

A consumer will be greeted by Pepper and then pair their MasterPass account by either tapping the Pepper icon within a mobile wallet or by scanning a QR code on the tablet that the robot holds.

After pairing, the idea is that Pepper will help cardholders by providing recommendations and offers, as well as providing additional information on the menu, and then help with checking out and paying.

Pepper will be able to initiate, approve and then complete a transaction by connecting to MasterPass via Wi-Fi.

SoftBank claims that Pepper is the world’s first personal robot that can read emotions, and is looking to push it globally.  The robot is influenced by people’s facial expressions and words.