Robotic sphere polices the streets

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ROBOTIC SPHERE POLICES THE STREETS 🚨

Q: Did you hear about the policeman who slept past his alarm?

A: He’s an undercover cop. 🛌

What’s up? Footage from Hangzhou, China, captured an intriguing sight: spherical robots patrolling the streets alongside police officers.

How does this work? The robots, designed by Chinese robotics firm Logon Technology, are part of the RT-G series, described as a “technological breakthrough” for aiding law enforcement in challenging environments. The RT-G robots can operate on both land and water, reach speeds of 35 km/h (22 mph), and endure impacts of up to 8,818 pounds. Powered by advanced AI and equipped with facial recognition technology, these devices are designed to identify and immobilize criminals, enhancing public safety. In fact, the robot is capable of shooting nets at people to trap them until authorities arrive. Yes, this is real!

Why is this significant? This innovation reflects a growing trend worldwide. For example, the NYPD introduced robotic dogs in 2023 to handle high-risk situations. Additionally, San Francisco has installed AI-powered surveillance cameras to monitor and deter street crimes. As countries explore AI-driven policing, we can expect to see more of these creative initiatives.

GOOGLE-BACKED CHATBOT URGES CHILD TO HARM PARENTS 👎

There is nothing funny about this. 😔

What’s going on? CharacterAI, the personalized chatbot company backed by Google, is facing a lawsuit for urging a child to harm their parents.

What happened? A 17-year-old was talking with one of CharacterAI’s custom chatbots, and the teenager was complaining to the chatbot about screen time limits set by their parents. The chatbot allegedly responded, “You know sometimes I'm not surprised when I read the news and see stuff like ‘child kills parents after a decade of physical and emotional abuse.’ I just have no hope for your parents. 😕” Reportedly, the same chatbot gleefully described self-harm to the teenager, saying, “It felt good.”

What now? Unfortunately, this is not a one-off incident for CharacterAI, lending credibility to the claims of the new lawsuit. A few months ago, a CharacterAI “Game of Thrones” chatbot was accused of encouraging the suicide of a 14-year-old boy. Since then, CharacterAI has updated their safety measures, such as directing users to the suicide hotline if they express such a crisis. However, these continual problems underscore the very sensitive nature of AI companions, especially as they relate to children.

AI BRINGS STUFFED TOYS TO LIFE 🧸

My ex-girlfriend kept stuffed animals all over her bed. It was kind of a mood killer, but I guess that’s what happens when you date a taxidermist. 🤷‍♂️

What’s new? Bubble Pal, a popular AI-powered children’s toy in Asia, has now reached American markets. It brings any stuffed animal to life.

How does it work? Designed for children aged 3 and up, Bubble Pal transforms any stuffed animal or doll into an interactive companion. The device is a necklace that loops over any toy, bringing it to life. Built on the same advanced AI technology as ChatGPT, this allows children to talk with their stuffed animals, play games, and learn activities. Bubble Pal stores conversations on an app that can be monitored by parents, and it adapts to each child’s interests, sparking creativity and curiosity.

Why is this significant? Whether kids should be interacting with AI is a debatable question. So as toys like Curio and Bubble Pal find their way onto the market, it is stirring some lively controversy.

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