Shanghai Qingbao's robotic monks to make historic debut in Buddhist temple settings.
In a landmark development for the humanoid robotics sector, Shanghai Qingbao Engine Robot has announced plans to dispatch over 20 of its robotic monks to India.
This initiative marks the first instance of robots being utilized in a spiritual capacity within a religious context.
The robotic monks, designed with serene expressions and clad in traditional orange robes, are set to take on roles such as delivering sermons at a Buddhist temple, adopting the iconic lotus posture typically associated with meditation and prayer.
The integration of these robots into religious practices signifies a notable advancement for the industry, which until now has primarily employed humanoid robots in manufacturing, entertainment, and service sectors.
Shanghai Qingbao has previously focused on the development of robots for cultural tourism and various exhibitions.
This development occurs amidst a broader trend of companies venturing into the humanoid robotics space.
Among these are
Tesla and Nvidia, as well as prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like Xiaomi and Xpeng, all of which are engaged in advancing the capabilities and applications of humanoid robots.
The growing involvement of such robots in diverse roles, including workplace assistance, entertainment, and now spiritual functions, indicates a significant evolution in both artificial intelligence and automation technologies.
The introduction of robotic monks raises questions about the future interplay between technology and cultural practices, while also reflecting shifting trends in the adoption of robotics across different societal spheres.