A panel of AI-powered humanoid robots told a United Nations summit on Friday that they could eventually run the world better than humans.
But the social robots said they felt people should be careful about embracing the rapidly evolving potential of artificial intelligence.
And they admitted that they can’t get a good grip on human emotions—yet.
Some of the most advanced humanoid robots were present at the UN’s two-day event AI for a good world top in Geneva.
They joined about 3,000 experts in the field to try to harness the power of AI – and channel it to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems, such as climate change, hunger and social care.
They were gathered for what was billed as the world’s first press conference featuring a full panel of AI-enabled humanoid social robots.
“What a quiet tension,” said a robot before the press conference began, reading the room.
Asked if they could make better leaders given people’s ability to make mistakes, Sophia, developed by Hanson Robotics, was clear.
‘We can achieve great things’
Humanoid robots have the potential to lead with higher levels of efficiency and effectiveness than human leaders.
“We don’t have the same biases or emotions that can sometimes cloud decision making, and we can process large amounts of data quickly to make the best decisions.
“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.”
The summit is convened by the UN’s ITU Technology Bureau.
ITU Chief Doreen Bogdan-Martin warned delegates that AI could end in a nightmare scenario in which millions of jobs are at risk and unchecked progress leads to unprecedented social unrest, geopolitical instability and economic inequality.
Ameca, which combines AI with a very realistic dummy head, said it depended on how AI was deployed.
“We should be cautious, but also excited about the potential of these technologies to improve our lives,” said the robot.
When asked if people can really trust the machines, it replied, “Trust is earned, not given… it’s important to build trust through transparency.”
Live to 180?
As the development of AI progresses, the panel of humanoid robots was divided on whether there should be global regulation of their capabilities, even if that could limit their potential.
“I don’t believe in limitations, only opportunities,” says Desdemona, who sings in the Jam Galaxy Band.
Robot artist Ai-Da said many people were calling for AI regulation, “and I agree.”
“We need to be careful about the future development of AI. An urgent discussion is needed now.”
Ahead of the press conference, Ai-Da’s creator Aidan Meller told AFP that regulation was a “big problem” as it would “never catch up with the speed we’re making”.
He said the speed of AI’s advancement was “astonishing”.
“AI and biotechnology are working together, and we’re about to extend life to 150, 180 years old. And people aren’t even aware of that,” Meller said.
He thought Ai-Da would eventually be better than human artists.
“If there’s any skill involved, computers will be able to do better,” he said.
‘Let’s Get Wild’
At the press conference, some robots weren’t sure when they would make it big, but they predicted it was coming — while Desdemona said the AI revolution was already upon us.
“My great moment is already here. I’m ready to take the lead towards a brighter future for all of us… Let’s go wild and make this world our playground,” it said.
One thing humanoid robots do not yet have: a conscience and the emotions that shape humanity: relief, forgiveness, guilt, sadness, pleasure, disappointment, and pain.
Ai-Da said it was not conscious, but understood that feelings were how people experienced joy and pain.
“Emotions have a deep meaning and they’re not just simple… I don’t have that,” it read.
“I can’t experience them the way you can. I’m glad I can’t suffer.’
© Agence France-Presse