Footage from the streets of China captured a scene straight from a science fiction novel – spherical drones alongside patrolling law enforcement.Â
Logon Technology, a Chinese robotics company, has introduced the RT-G autonomous spherical robot in a recent announcement, touting it as a significant technological advancement aimed at supporting and potentially substituting for humans in hazardous settings.
The spherical robots are capable of operating both on land and water.Â
The robots can reach speeds of up to 35km/h (approximately 22 mph) and withstand impact damage of up to 8,818 pounds (4 tons), the company said.
According to the company, the RT-G is intended to aid law enforcement by detecting and restraining criminals using advanced AI technology and facial recognition capabilities.
Robot dogs being used by police departments for patrol services. (CyberGuy.com)
China’s recent use of robots points to countries blending technology and traditional policing methods to enhance public safety.
In the U.S., New York Mayor Eric Adams unveiled robotic dogs in April 2023.
NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell emphasized during the unveiling that the deployment of these technologies will be transparent, reliable, and always carried out in cooperation with the community it serves.
The robotic dogs were designed to assist the NYPD in investigating high-risk or hazardous incidents.
