San José Mineta International Airport launches AI-powered IntBot humanoid robot | News
As the gateway to Silicon Valley, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) brings advanced artificial intelligence directly into the passenger journey. Today, the airport is debuting an interactive AI-powered humanoid robot called “José” from local startup IntBot. Designed to greet travelers, answer questions and provide real-time information in more than 50 languages. José will be based in Terminal B, Gate 24 (near Zoom Zone), to help transform one of the busiest public spaces in the region into a live testing ground for emerging technology.
Developed by Silicon Valley-based startup IntBot, the platform represents a new generation of physical AI agents powered by real-world perception, contextual reasoning and natural interaction, enabling seamless operation in complex public environments.
“San José continues to lead the way in applying emerging technologies in ways that improve daily experiences for residents and visitors,” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “The introduction of IntBot at SJC reflects our commitment to thoughtful innovation that strengthens customer service while supporting our city’s reputation as a global technology center.”
“We expect thousands of visitors from around the world for the FIFA World Cup, and thanks to IntBot they will receive clear directions, real-time terminal information and answers in more than 50 languages,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. “We work with local start-ups to improve services and raise the bar for customer experience.”
“San José is at the center of global innovation, and our airport is a natural place to introduce technologies that shape the future,” said Mookie Patel, director of aviation at San José Mineta International Airport. “By testing IntBot, we are exploring how artificial intelligence can improve the passenger journey while strengthening SJC’s role as a gateway to Silicon Valley.”
“At IntBot, we are defining the category of social intelligence for physical AI, and building the foundational layer that enables robots to understand human intent, context and behavior in real-world environments,” said Lei Yang, CEO of IntBot. “This deployment at San José Mineta International Airport marks an important milestone in bringing socially intelligent robots to one of the busiest public hubs, demonstrating how these systems can operate reliably at scale. We have only just begun to unlock what this technology will enable across industries.”
The commitment aligns with the City of San José’s broader commitment to responsible innovation and the use of technology to improve public services.
As one of the nation’s most reliable airports and the closest airport to the heart of Silicon Valley, SJC regularly partners with technology companies to test new tools that improve the passenger experience.
The four-month IntBot pilot is part of SJC’s ongoing efforts to explore technologies that improve customer service, accessibility and operational efficiency while maintaining the airport’s reputation as the Bay Area’s simplest and most convenient airport.
