Boston Dynamics published an open letter promising not to turn their robots into dogs of war. The company has joined 5 large companies in the field of robotics in order to prevent the misuse of its technologies. According to the document, the software and artificial intelligence used in the robots will be developed to prevent the deployment of weapons.

The manufacturer responsible for the Spot robot dog has joined Agility, ANYbotics, Clearpath Robotics, Open Robotics and Unitree in issuing the letter. The content of the document reinforces the wishes of the companies. “We promise not to weaponize our advanced mobile robots or our advanced robotics software, and we will not support others in doing so.”

The company recently announced a $400 million partnership with Hyundai to develop AI in the robotics industry. O the goal is to create more flexible, smarter and easier-to-use robots, For example, the bipedal robot Atlas. Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Plater says that, even looking at the advancement of the sector, this segment will only be accepted if people trust the technology. “We are concerned about the recent increase in the efforts of individuals trying to arm commercial robots. [….] This means that we need a policy that prohibits misuse by bad people.”

The union does not prevent other companies in the industry from developing robotics solutions designed for warfare. Additionally, users can bypass Boston Dynamics’ security and use the manufacturer’s products to mount firearms on the Spot or Atlas. Recognizing these risks, the company states: “we will carefully consider the orders of our customers”, as well as the development of tools to “reduce the chances” of arming robots.

The Spot robot can jump rope and pick up objects

Spot’s advanced mobile robotic dog has made amazing strides in recent years. Equipped with a mechanical arm, it can walk on snow and pick up objects from the ground, open doors, and even jump rope.

Boston Dynamics clearly states its intention to use its technological solutions to help people’s lives. Spot’s advanced mobile robotic dog is in use at some locations in the US Fire Department and Police Department. on missions such as investigating suspicious packages or entering dangerous places.

The matter is complex and, of course, cannot be solved by one open letter. However, the publication of the manifesto indicates the company’s desire to prevent possible tragedies that could be caused by technological advances in the field of robotics.

Robbers use Mini drone to steal $147,000 in France
The case took place in May of this year, but it took some time for its consequences to become public.

Source: Engadget, Tweaktown

…..