Like many Asian countries, Japan has got pretty good free Wi-Fi coverage, but like all things, there’s room for improvement, which is where these vending machines come in. Asahi [JP] says that they will allow people within 160 feet to access the Internet for free, on multiple devices, without registering.

Building Wi-Fi hotspots into vending machines make good sense, because they already have to be plugged into a power source, and presumably these days they also need to communicate sales and stock information back to the main office. Over the next five years, Asahi plans on putting out about 10,000 of these machines. For 2012, they plan on installing 1,000.

And no, the beer isn’t free, just the Wi-Fi.

[via CrunchGear]

The robot stores up to six cans of beer in its refrigerated belly, then dispenses them into a glass mug when you’re ready for a drink.

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Originally available as part of a contest the beer-maker ran in Japan, CScout Japan is now selling “gently used” ‘bots all around the globe for just $799 (plus $99 for insured shipping). Each Robocco includes everything you need to get started, including instructions in English and Japanese.

While it might be cutting it a little close for Fathers’ Day, I’m sure Dad would forgive you if you got him one of these a couple of days late.