Autonomous delivery robots will be allowed to operate on the streets of Japan from next month, and although the technology is still a work in progress, developers have shown prototypes in Tokyo that might one day become a common sight.

Companies rolled out eight different robots for display on Monday. The developers include an automaker, an appliance company and an online retailer.

Panasonic Holdings was one of the firms and staged a demonstration run.

Its robot is designed to make deliveries along designated routes. It travels at walking pace and automatically stops at obstacles.

Such machines are expected to help with delivery labor shortages and make it easier to shop in rural areas.

The economy and industry ministry plans to promote research and development into the needed systems and technologies.