In a video shared on Boston Dynamics’ YouTube channel, Matt Klingensmith, a principal software engineer at the robotics company, engages one of the iconic yellow robot dogs in a simple conversation. They are positioned in front of a calibration board covered in QR codes.
The robot, sporting googly eyes, a stick-on moustache, and a miniature cowboy hat, responds to Matt’s query, offering a whimsical outlook on the QR code-filled board and a large window. It speaks in full sentences thanks to the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, as reported by Fast Company. But more than just coherent speech, these robot dogs now possess distinct personalities.
These personalities include Fancy Butler, who exudes British propriety; Teenage Robot, with a youthful and peppy tone; 1920 Archaeologist, who recounts adventures with a trusty hat; and Shakespearean Time Traveler, known for rhyming couplets.
When Matt asks about its job, the Shakespearean Time Traveler robot enthusiastically responds, infusing a poetic touch into its role. And then there’s “Josh”, characterized by a sarcastic and nihilistic demeanour, questioning the void of existence.
Levatas, an AI software company, partnered with Boston Dynamics to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google Assistant’s voice technology into these robot dogs, named Spot. This integration allows the robots to listen and verbally interact with humans. The speech capabilities extend beyond entertainment, facilitating data interpretation and clear communication with non-technical individuals.
These robot dogs, often used in manufacturing and logistics, can now communicate the data they gather to a broader audience. For example, Boston Hospital staff employed Spots with iPads to interact with patients while minimizing COVID-19 risks. In New Zealand, a company used Spot for herding sheep and collecting agricultural data.
The New York Police Department, after a brief hiatus, also announced plans to reintegrate Boston Dynamics’ robot dogs into their operations. With their new voice capabilities, the robot dogs open up even more possibilities, making them less alienating and potentially more acceptable to the public.
In essence, these robot dogs are evolving to become versatile and effective tools, capable of assisting in various situations while engaging with humans in a more relatable manner.
