Singapore Develops Humanoid Robots to Replace Firefighters
The Singaporean government will deploy humanoid robots to assist with high-risk tasks such as firefighting, hazardous materials handling, and rescue missions starting in 2027.
Singapore's Minister of Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo stated that this project will receive an injection of 100 million Singapore dollars.
Initially, these robots will be remotely controlled by humans, but they are expected to operate autonomously with artificial intelligence (AI) starting in 2029.
The sophistication of AI will allow the robots to respond to field situations with minimal oversight from human operators, making decisions automatically in complex conditions without much human intervention.
Four robot prototypes were introduced at the opening event of the AI TechXplore exhibition at Fusionopolis One on May 26. At the event, Phoenix, an artificial language model by HTX capable of communicating in four official languages of Singapore, was also introduced.
“Modern criminals are becoming increasingly adept at utilizing technology. Therefore, security forces must also have the capability to use technology to protect the community,” said Josephine Teo.