Singapore: Robodog reminds parkgoers to follow distancing rules

A remote-controlled yellow and black robot dog built by Boston Dynamics has been deployed in a Singapore central park for a two-week trial in which the dog politely, in a female voice, in English, reminds cyclists and joggers to stay at least one metre apart. Breaking the lockdown rules attracts fines and even jail time. Residents are only allowed to leave home alone for essential trips and must wear a mask at all times in public.

Other robots being trialled include a small car. The robot dog, which is better able to cross the terrain of parks and gardens, is equipped with cameras and analytics, but authorities have said the cameras will not be used to record personal data or track individuals.

Source: https://news.trust.org/item/20200508122725-up8gx

Writer: Edgar Su
Publication: Thomson Reuters Foundation