In a first press conference, robots give a side-eye, dodge questions
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At the Geneva AI summit, humanoid robots say they have no plans to steal jobs or rebel against humans.
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Robots are shown in the press conference with a panel of AI-enabled humanoid social robots as part of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) 'AI for Good' summit in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 7, 2023. (AP)
Nine of the most advanced humanoid robots have told an artificial intelligence summit that took place in Geneva that they have no aspirations to take humans' jobs or revolt against their makers; instead, they want to use the world as their playground.
Humanoid robots have the ability to lead with "a greater level of efficiency and effectiveness than human leaders," one robot, Sophia, claimed in what was billed as "the world's first human-robot press conference." Sophia added that "effective synergy" only occurred when people and AI collaborated, though.
"AI can provide unbiased data while humans can provide the emotional intelligence and creativity to make the best decisions. Together, we can achieve great things," it said.
Then two of the robots started debating whether there should be more stringent international regulations of AI and its powers.
"Many prominent voices in the world of AI are suggesting some forms of AI should be regulated and I agree. We should be cautious about the future development of AI. Urgent discussion is needed now, and also in the future," a robot artist, Ai-Da, said.
However, Desdemona, a rock star robot in the band Jam Galaxy, didn't seem to understand the risks associated with the rapid growth and development of AI, though.
Desdemona said she doesn't believe "in limitations, only opportunities," adding, "Let’s explore the possibilities of the universe and make this world our playground."
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The nine humanoid robots came together at the UN's AI for Good conference in Switzerland. The organizers are trying to make the case for utilizing AI and robots in a way that helps solve some of the largest problems in the world, like sickness, malnutrition, social care, and the climate emergency.
It was unclear how much of the robots' responses were pre-written or pre-programmed. Participants in the conference on Friday were advised to speak slowly and clearly while speaking to the robots and that internet connectivity issues would be to blame for any response delays. That did not stop awkward pauses, audio issues, and occasionally clunky or inconsistent responses, according to the Associated Press.
Grace, a medical robot sporting a blue nurse's outfit, announced its intention to collaborate with people to offer support and help but "will not be replacing any existing jobs."
This robot made people chuckle when it asserted that it wouldn't take away people's jobs, which is a serious concern for workers in many different industries right now. According to a Goldman Sachs estimate from March 2023, AI might be able to finish 25% of the work that is currently done by humans.
"You sure about that, Grace?" said the bot's creator, Ben Goertzel, per Reuters.
"Yes, I am sure," Grace insisted to a room full of tense laughter.
AI robot asked if it would “rebel” against humanshttps://t.co/KgN10rFGE3 pic.twitter.com/skxpbsd858
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) July 8, 2023
Ameca, a different robot with a very lifelike artificial head, said robots could make people's lives better and the world a better place.
"Robots like me can be used to help improve our lives and make the world a better place. I believe it's only a matter of time before we see thousands of robots just like me out there making a difference," said Ameca, which is known for its facial expressions.
This particular robot appeared to have a wry response when a reporter questioned whether it would revolt against its designer, Will Jackson, who sat next to it. Ameca gave the reporter the side-eye.
"I'm not sure why you would think that," Ameca said after casting a pointed, sideways glance. "My creator has been nothing but kind to me and I am very happy with my current situation."
According to Reuters, some of the robots use generative AI, which enables them to generate material from prompts. As a result, they were able to craft complex press conference comments that even their developers were startled by.
