For Older People Who Are Lonely, Is the Solution a Robot Friend?
New York State introduces ElliQ, an AI-powered robotic companion for older adults to combat loneliness. Concerns arise over data collection and dependency. Positive feedback shows reduced loneliness and improved well-being. Other states follow suit.
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In an effort to combat loneliness among older residents, New York State has introduced ElliQ, a voice-activated robotic companion powered by artificial intelligence. Created by Intuition Robotics, ElliQ engages users in conversations, shares news, plays games, and even discusses complex topics like religion. While some users find comfort and companionship in ElliQ, concerns have been raised about data collection and the potential for users to become overly reliant on the technology. State officials have distributed hundreds of ElliQ robots to older adults, with positive feedback indicating a reduction in loneliness and an improvement in well-being. Despite the success of ElliQ, some legislators and experts urge caution in regulating the use of such technology to protect user data and ensure ethical relationships between humans and AI. Other states like Florida, Michigan, and Washington also provide similar AI companions to older adults, highlighting a growing trend in using technology to address social isolation among the elderly population.
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5 comments"The Encyclopedia Galactica defines a robot as a mechanical apparatus designed to do the work of a man. The marketing division of the Sirius Cybernetics Corporation defines a robot as 'Your Plastic Pal Who's Fun to Be With'. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy defines the marketing division of the Sirius Cybernetic Corporation as 'a bunch of mindless jerks who'll be the first against the wall when the revolution comes'."
If that's the robot friend you're promising me I think a lot of people would be fine with it.
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