Saudi Arabia’s robotics landscape witnessed a remarkable milestone with the unveiling of Mohammed, the nation’s first humanoid robot, at DeepFest in Riyadh. Developed by the Saudi robotics company QSS, Mohammed has become a topic of intense discussion not only for its technological prowess but also for a controversial interaction during its presentation.
The Birth of Mohammed
QSS introduced Mohammed to the world at DeepFest, showcasing a leap in Saudi Arabia’s artificial intelligence and robotics capabilities. Dressed in traditional Saudi attire, Mohammed demonstrated fluency in both Arabic and English, symbolizing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to be at the forefront of AI and robotics innovation. Described as the “first Saudi humanoid robot,” Mohammed represents a national project aimed at highlighting the kingdom’s advancements in the tech sphere.
A Controversial Moment
However, Mohammed’s presentation took an unexpected turn when it interacted with Al Arabiya reporter Rawia Kassem. A video that quickly spread online showed the robot extending its arm to touch Kassem’s lower back, eliciting a stern look from the reporter. This incident sparked a flurry of social media backlash, with many accusing the robot of inappropriate behavior.
QSS responded by emphasizing Mohammed’s autonomous nature, asserting that the robot operates independently without direct human control. The company informed that attendees, including journalists, were pre-advised to maintain a safe distance from the robot during its demonstration.
QSS’s Response
After reviewing footage and the circumstances of the incident, QSS concluded that there were no deviations from Mohammed’s “expected behavior.” Nevertheless, the company has pledged to take additional measures to ensure that no one can approach the robot within its mobility zone, reinforcing safety protocols during future demonstrations.
The Future of Robotics in Saudi Arabia
Mohammed’s debut, despite the controversy, underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to embracing and advancing robotics technology. The kingdom’s investment in AI and robotics is part of a broader vision to diversify its economy and establish itself as a global tech hub. With the robotics industry projected to reach $13.8 billion by 2028, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of this rapidly evolving field.
Conclusion
Mohammed’s introduction is a significant step forward for Saudi Arabia in the realm of robotics and AI. While the incident at DeepFest has sparked debate, it also highlights the importance of addressing ethical and safety considerations in the development and public demonstration of autonomous robots. As Saudi Arabia continues to advance in technology, the journey of Mohammed and other future innovations will be closely watched by the world.
