News

Saudi Arabia is the First Country to Grant Citizenship to a Robot

Saudi Arabia just became the world’s first country to grant official citizenship to a robot named Sophia. This is the same Sophia from Hanson robotics who has been making the rounds on many media outlets since last year, including The Tonight Show.

Sophia is modeled after Audrey Hepburn and is designed specifically to interact with humans. She has can simulate and mimic facial movements and she has a human-like voice. Unlike other robots with pre-programmed personalities, Sophia gains intelligence through her deep learning algorithm. She is even capable of joking and sarcasm, as seen in an interview with CNBC at SXSW last year (video below).

More Rights than Saudi Women

Although it is obviously a PR stunt, the event raises some interesting social questions about rights in Saudi Arabia. Sophia appeared on stage without an Abaya or head covering and she was also on the stage alone unescorted. These are two things which under current Saudi law, women cannot do in public. This indicates that the usual rules for women do not apply to robots.

To be fair, the country is still young at only 85 years old. Having gone from tents to high-tech skyscrapers in only a matter of a few decades. Women have recently been granted rights to vote two years ago, and voted to earn the right to drive in 2017. Plus, the new crown prince Mohammed bin Salman vows to return the nation to moderate Islam and “destroy extremism”. The move could actually be a signal of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to being a leader in terms of social change.

Ron Perillo

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Trust Gaming GXT 609 Zoxa 2.0 PC Speakers

SOUNDS GREAT – Full stereo sound (12W peak power) gives your setup a booming audio…

1 hour ago

PowerA Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch

Special Edition Yoshi design Ergonomic controller shape with Nintendo Switch button layout Detachable 10ft (3m)…

1 hour ago

Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Rudder Pedals

Fluid Motion: These flight rudder pedals are smooth and accurate that enable precise control over…

1 hour ago

Logitech G Saitek Farm Sim Controller

Heavy Equipment Bundle: Includes a steering wheel for heavy machinery, gas and brake pedals, and…

1 hour ago

Razer Ornata V3 X – Low Profile Gaming Keyboard

Low-profile Keys for an ergonomic gaming experience. With slimmer keycaps and shorter switches, enjoy natural…

1 hour ago

Glorious Gaming Model O Wired Gaming Mouse

Size & style: Ambidextrous lightweight mouse for gaming. Built for speed, control and comfort, with…

1 hour ago