An AI-powered humanoid robot named Green performed a dance for President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday at a Sberbank exhibition in Moscow, showcasing the technological prowess of Russia’s largest bank. This event, broadcast on state television, featured the robot introducing itself to the Russian leader before dancing to its favorite track.
“My name is Green. I am the first Russian humanoid robot with embedded artificial intelligence. This means that I am not just a program on a screen, but a physical embodiment of technology,” the robot informed Putin. Sberbank has announced plans to continually upgrade the robot’s software, with potential applications in performing physical tasks and integration into its operations.
The unusual display was closely monitored by Putin’s security detail, with one bodyguard ensuring the robot maintained a safe distance from the President. Putin praised the robot’s performance as “very beautiful” before moving on to inspect Sberbank’s new smart cash machines, which utilize cameras to provide health summaries based on ten indicators, such as pulse and blood pressure.
The Context of Russia’s AI Ambitions
The demonstration comes on the heels of a less successful presentation of another Russian AI robot, Aidol, which experienced a malfunction during its debut in Moscow. The robot’s fall was a stark contrast to the intended showcase of Russia’s advancements in AI technology.
During the incident, organizers quickly removed Aidol from the stage, shielding it from the view of approximately 50 journalists present. Dmitry Filonov, editor-in-chief of Edinorog Media, described the scene, noting the audience’s supportive applause despite the mishap.
“At first, there was a moment of silence,” Filonov recounted. “Then they began to applaud to show their support.”
Expert Opinions and Technical Challenges
Vladimir Vitukhin, CEO of the company behind Aidol, explained to the state news agency Tass that the robot is still in the learning phase. He expressed optimism that the incident would serve as a valuable learning experience.
Vitukhin detailed the rigorous testing Aidol underwent prior to its debut, which included trials on various surfaces such as stones, carpet, and slippery floors. He attributed the fall to a possible voltage fluctuation and environmental factors, including lighting conditions.
“Surely everyone felt sorry for it, and that’s one of its functions – to evoke sympathy,” Vitukhin noted, as reported by the Moscow Times.
Implications and Future Prospects
The contrasting performances of Green and Aidol highlight the challenges and potential of AI development in Russia. As the nation seeks to establish itself as a leader in AI technology, these events underscore the complexities involved in creating humanoid robots capable of interacting seamlessly with humans.
Looking ahead, Sberbank’s commitment to integrating AI into its operations signals a broader trend of technological innovation within Russia’s financial sector. The bank’s efforts to enhance customer experience through AI-driven solutions, such as health-monitoring cash machines, reflect a growing emphasis on digital transformation.
As AI technology continues to evolve, Russia’s endeavors in this field will likely face both triumphs and setbacks. The recent events serve as a reminder of the intricate balance between technological ambition and practical execution.
With ongoing advancements and refinements, the future of AI in Russia remains a dynamic and closely watched arena, promising further developments that could shape the global landscape of artificial intelligence.
