Russia’s foray into AI-powered robotics appears to be off to a rocky start.
The country’s first humanoid robot to incorporate AI technology was unveiled at a technology conference in Moscow on Tuesday. Video from the event shows the invention, named Aidol, hobbling onto the stage accompanied by two humans to the tune of “Gonna Fly Now,” the main theme from the film Rocky. Trying to wave to the audience, Aidol lost its balance and toppled over. The presentation was immediately cut short, and the robot was carried away.
Journalist Dmitry Filonov noted that Alexey Yuzhakov, head of Russia’s National Technological Coalition, had previously warned that Aidol’s developers had invested little in improving its ability to walk. Vladimir Vitukhin, the founder of the machine’s parent company, told journalists that the problem was caused by the robot’s stereo cameras: they’re sensitive to lighting conditions, and the hall was dark.
When Aidol later appeared on stage a second time, it managed to stay on its feet — though not without help, the Moscow News Agency reported. The company’s director, Vladimir Vitukhin, said the robot was not damaged. “This is exactly what real-time learning is: when a successful mistake turns into knowledge, and an unsuccessful one into experience. I hope this mistake becomes experience,” the company head said.
According to the developers, the robot “covers three key human functions: walking on two legs, manipulating objects, and communicating with people.” All of the machine’s systems operate offline, and it can function autonomously for up to six hours. The developers believe such a robot could work in the manufacturing and logistics sectors, as well as in banks, airports, or other public spaces. However, the company has not revealed the specific AI system that Aidol uses.
The developers also said that realistic facial expressions and emotional reactions are “Aidol’s key distinctions from other global models.” The robot’s “face” can purportedly display at least 12 basic emotions and “hundreds” of micro-expressions.
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