A press conference at a United Nations summit invited nine humanoid robots to answer questions from the audience.
While many responses matched expectations, some responses created pause.
The humanoid Sophia said that robots can be more efficient and effective than humans in running the world.
Even though the humanoid Sophia claimed that the nine AI-powered robots speaking at a press conference as part of the United Nations AI for Good Global Summit were not there to take jobs from humans, there was more than just a nervous laugh when the robot said that humanoids could in theory handle Earth better than humans.
“Humanoid robots have the potential to lead with a higher level of efficiency and effectiveness than human leaders,” said the robot developed by Hanson Robotics. “We don’t have the same biases or emotions that can sometimes cloud decision-making and quickly process large amounts of data in order to make the best decisions.”
The artificial intelligence behind these answers tells these humanoids that they know best, at least from a purely logical standpoint. But logic is not everything, and emotion is essential in many decisions.
Interestingly, Sophia seems to have taken this into account in the statement, concluding with a statement that is much more collaborative than conquering. “AI can provide unbiased data while humans can provide the emotional intelligence and creativity needed to make the best decisions,” Sophia said. “Together we can achieve great things.”
Journalists joined nine humanoids and their developers at the UN-hosted summit led by the International Telecommunication Union. Despite some technological glitches that have slowed responses, there has been a back-and-forth between machine and human on everything from health care to entertainment, with robots sometimes relying on pre-programmed responses and other times on the AI. But it’s the questions about the role of robots that have caused the most stir, though we don’t know whether they constitute the beliefs of the AI humanoids themselves or the developers and programmers behind them.
“We need to be cautious but also excited about the potential of these technologies to improve our lives,” said the AI-run Ameca humanoid. As reported by France Media Agency, in response to the question of whether humans can really trust robots, Ameca said that “trust is earned, not given. It is important to build trust through transparency.
Ameca was also asked about her rebellion against her creator. “I don’t know why you think that,” Ameca said. “My creator has been nothing but nice to me and I’m very happy with where I am now.”
When it comes to the future of robots, even some robots don’t know where it’s going. “I don’t believe in limits, only in opportunities,” said robot Desdemona. “My big moment is already here. I’m ready to lead the charge towards a better future for all of us. Let’s get crazy and make this world our playground.”
Whether or not you’re excited about the idea of a robotic playground, these humanoids seem to think they’re ready to make a change.
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