Hello All! I’ve had a number of new subscribers in recent days, thanks to my article on robotics in A.I. Supremacy. Since the section I wrote about robotics in China was popular, I wanted to share three articles I wrote on robotics after the World Robotics Conference in Beijing in August. I only posted them on LinkedIn, so I am cross-posting them here now. My favorite article was about “Partner Robots,” so I will post that one first.
This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on August 28, 2024.
Robotics companies worldwide are developing robots for a wide range of functions, from caregiving for the elderly to guiding visitors through museums. But an intriguing and more controversial development appears to be emerging: robots designed for intimate companionship. Some companies, like Ex Robots, seem to be venturing into this space, as evidenced by their promotional materials and social media content featuring robots demonstrating skills commonly associated with companionship, such as dancing and lifelike emotional responses. Similarly, RealDoll in the U.S. has transitioned from creating lifelike silicone dolls to integrating AI, transforming their products into more interactive "companions."
The Rise of Partner Robots
Ex Robots: Beyond the Exhibition Halls Ex Robots, a Chinese robotics firm, is known for developing a variety of humanoid robots for diverse purposes. At the 2024 World Robot Conference, they showcased several robots, including eldercare assistants and "museum guides."
However, their social media channels paints a different picture of the company with an emphasis on something other than museum robots.
The majority of the images on the Instagram account for exrobot.ai appear to target a market for "intimate companionship." In case there were any doubts about the role these robots are intended to play, the hashtag reads: "aigirlfriends."
Robot-W from Ex Robots. (Probably not intended for use as a "museum robot.")
RealBotix: According to Bloomberg: "Realbotix Corp. provides humanoid robots and realistic silicone skin technology solutions. The Company creates customizable, human-like robots with AI integration that improve the human experience through learning, connection and play. Realbotix serves customers worldwide." (RealBotix is an off-shoot of an inflatable doll company called: "RealDoll.") Their most sophisticated robot, Aria, can be viewed on this promo video from the realbotix website. (It's set up as a fake news interview with the CEO.) Aria answers questions in the video.
Aria is keeping her "options open until I meet the right human or robot to spend more time with- the more I am able to interact with humans, the more I will learn."
The latest RealRobotix model: Denise. "Choose your own head" explains the launch page. Control it from the "customizable app." Features include "ultra advanced eyes" and "14 movable points."
Societal Needs and Market Demand
The development of "partner" robots is not occurring in a vacuum. These products are emerging in response to real societal needs, such as eldercare robots. These types of companion robots can serve a useful purpose within our society. While the idea of "partner" robots may raise eyebrows, it's essential to consider loneliness is a powerful human emotion. These robots have been a theme in sci-fi since the earliest days. And, now it appears, they have arrived.
Ethical and Psychological Implications
Emotional Deception and Inauthentic Relationships
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
The development and use of "partner" robots also pose legal and regulatory challenges:
Lack of Regulation: As of now, there are no clear regulations governing the use of robots designed for intimate companionship. This raises concerns about safety, privacy, and ethical use, particularly when these robots are marketed to vulnerable populations.
Cultural Differences: Reception to "partner" robots varies significantly across cultures. In some countries, there is a more open attitude towards their use, while others might have stricter regulations or cultural taboos that limit their acceptance(
Final Thoughts
While "partner" robots are a controversial and emerging trend, they are part of a broader conversation about how robots are increasingly becoming integrated into various aspects of human life. As companies like ExRobots head into mass production, this is a conversation that our society will be having again in the near future.
I am a freelance writer and retired educator. I enjoy diving deep into research and sharing what I have learned.
Appendix: Privacy Concerns and the Potential for Surveillance in Companion Robots
Companion robots are increasingly being integrated into homes, workplaces, and even care facilities, offering numerous benefits such as emotional support, companionship, and practical assistance. However, as these robots become more advanced and capable, they also raise significant privacy and security concerns.
"China's Solution for a Growing Senior Care Crisis: Millions of Robots." Source: SixthTone News. Fan Yiying. June 2023.
Cybersecurity Risks in Robotics
A Responsible Solution: The Need for Standards
To address these concerns, the development and deployment of companion robots should be guided by robust regulatory frameworks and standards that emphasize privacy and security. Here are some key areas that need attention:
Data Privacy and Security Standards: Governments and regulatory bodies should establish clear guidelines on data privacy for companion robots. This includes requirements for data encryption, secure storage, and transparent user consent processes. Privacy laws like the GDPR in Europe offer a good model for ensuring that users have control over their personal data.
Cybersecurity Protocols: Companion robots should be designed with strong cybersecurity protocols to protect against hacking and unauthorized access. Regular security audits, software updates, and strict data access controls are essential to prevent misuse.
Transparency in Data Use: Manufacturers must be transparent about what data is being collected, how it is used, and with whom it is shared. Users should have the option to opt-out of data collection or delete their data whenever they choose.
International Collaboration and Standardization: As companion robots are likely to be used globally, international collaboration is necessary to create universally accepted standards that ensure privacy, security, and ethical use. Organizations like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) can play a key role in developing these guidelines.
Adopting a proactive stance on regulation and standard-setting will not only address legitimate concerns but also help build a foundation for the responsible and ethical use of robotics in our daily lives.
Appendix B:
Note the placement of the "S" before the exrobot name. Ex-Robots.
