Artificial intelligence continues to expand into new fields. While concerns have long centered on AI potentially replacing designers, programmers and other professionals, it now appears that even street beggars may have some competition.
In several Chinese cities, including Beijing, Chengdu and Fuzhou, passersby have reported seeing humanoid robots apparently begging for money.
Read also: China is leading the charge to bring humanoid robots home.
The robots were deliberately positioned in poses commonly associated with street beggars. Some were kneeling with their heads lowered, while others sat on sidewalks holding signs. The messages included phrases such as «I don’t have money to charge my phone» and «Please pay my electricity bill.» QR codes placed nearby allowed people to send money electronically.
Photos and videos of the unusual «beggars» quickly spread across social media, sparking debate and speculation.
However, many users doubt the robots were actually being used to collect donations. Advanced humanoid robots can cost tens of thousands of dollars, making such an endeavor economically impractical. Some observers have suggested the displays may be part of an art project or social experiment designed to highlight the growing presence of artificial intelligence in everyday life.
