The World Robot Conference in Beijing, a showcase for the latest advancements in robotics, drew significant attention last week. Social media platforms buzzed with videos of impressive humanoid robots, seemingly demonstrating the pinnacle of technological achievement. However, a closer look revealed a surprising truth: some of these ‘robots’ were actually humans in elaborate costumes.
One company, Ex-Robots, sparked controversy with their display. Videos circulated showing individuals dressed in realistic robot costumes, mimicking human movements with impressive detail. Many viewers were initially convinced that they were witnessing the development of incredibly lifelike humanoid robots. This illusion was further solidified by the robots engaging in seemingly natural activities, such as sitting and having lunch. However, the truth eventually emerged when a photo of one of the ‘robots’ eating lunch was shared online, clearly revealing the human underneath the costume.
While the reasons behind Ex-Robots’ use of human cosplayers remain unclear, the incident raises several questions. Was this a deliberate attempt to mislead viewers and generate excitement about their technology? Or was it a simple marketing tactic aimed at attracting attention to their booth? The use of human cosplayers to demonstrate robotic technology recalls a similar controversy surrounding Tesla’s Optimus event in 2022, where the company was criticized for using a human actor in a robot suit. This raises concerns about the ethical implications of using deceptive marketing tactics to promote technological advancements, especially in a field as rapidly developing as robotics.
