GabyWhile humanity debates what counts as artificial intelligence, the humanoid robots presented at a UN summit have already claimed they are superior to humans — a claim that sounds straight out of a sci‑fi movie where AI takes over the world.
Perhaps humanity is indeed moving a step closer to that scenario. For now, robots say they could manage the world better than humans over time, but they’re not openly vying for leadership.
They warn that people should be cautious with AI because it is developing rapidly. The humanoids also acknowledged they currently can’t properly handle human emotions.
Machines may outpace humans, but they’re ready to collaborate
Nine of the most advanced humanoid robot models attended the two-day UN Global Summit in Geneva. They joined 3,000 experts to offer AI-driven insights on global issues like climate change, humanitarian aid, and hunger. Organizers called it the world’s first press conference featuring social humanoid robots powered by AI.
Sophia, the robot developed by Hanson Robotics, surprised the audience when asked whether AI could surpass humans given humans’ capacity for error. She replied that humanoid robots can “achieve great success because they have the potential to manage more effectively and efficiently than humans.”
Sophia pointed out that robots aren’t subject to the biases or emotions that can cloud human judgment. She added that robots can process large volumes of data faster, which gives them an advantage in decision-making.
Sophia said humans and humanoid robots get the best results when they collaborate: robots bring objective data, while humans bring emotional intelligence and creativity.
Is a showdown between AI and humans still ahead?
The head of the technical agency, Dorin Bogdan‑Martin, warned summit delegates that AI could trigger a nightmarish scenario. She said millions of jobs are at risk and that uncontrolled advances in robotics could produce social unrest, geopolitical instability, and greater economic inequality.
The humanoid Ameca replied that it depends on how AI develops. It said robots should be developed cautiously with the goal of improving life. When asked whether people can trust machines, Ameca answered, “Trust is earned, not given… it is important to build it through transparency.”
Robots see their futures differently
A group of humanoid robots was divided over whether their capabilities should be regulated globally. The robotic singer Desdemona said she does not believe in restrictions — only in possibilities.
By contrast, the robot artist Ai‑Da said many people are debating AI regulation, and he agrees with them. According to him, the future development of artificial intelligence requires urgent public discussion.
Even before the summit, Ai‑Da’s creator, Aidan Meller, called regulation a “major issue” because it “will never keep up with the incredible pace of robot development.” He also said that AI working closely with biotechnology could one day extend human life to 150–180 years, a possibility people aren’t ready for. Mr. Meller is confident that eventually his Ai‑Da will surpass human artists, since robots will be able to perform better wherever specific skills are required.
Lack of conscience and a taste for leadership
As ScienceAlert reported, at the press conference some robots were unsure when they’d achieve success, but they expected it to come. The robotic singer Desdemona said the AI revolution is already at the doorstep.
She said her time has come and she’s ready to “lead the movement towards a better future for all of us.” Desdemona even called to “make the world a playground” for robots.
Humanoid robots at the UN summit
The one thing humanoid robots currently lack is conscience and emotions. Ai‑Da said that, while he doesn’t know what feelings are like, he thinks feelings are how people experience joy and pain. He said, “emotions have a deep meaning…”, but that he does not possess them and is glad he cannot suffer.
Event organizers didn’t say whether the robots’ responses were scripted beforehand. Still, the robots’ statements leave you wondering what future awaits humanity living alongside them.
