Russia Unveils AI Robot “Aidol”—Then It Immediately Falls Over on Stage

Russia unveiled a humanoid robot named Aidol that fell during its on-stage debut in Moscow, according to Newsweek on November 12. 

State and local media described Aidol as Russia’s first anthropomorphic, AI-equipped robot; during a presentation in the capital on November 11, the machine walked onto the stage to the “Gonna Fly Now” theme from “Rocky,” attempted to wave, lost balance, and toppled over before staff covered it and removed it from view.

A later attempt saw the robot remain upright with assistance, according to the Moscow City News Agency and other outlets. 

“I hope that this mistake will turn into an experience,” Vladimir Vitukhin, head of the developer Idol (part of the New Technology Coalition), said following the incident. He characterized the setback as “real-time learning,” and Russian outlets also quoted him saying the robot’s stereo cameras are sensitive to lighting conditions. 

According to RBK, Aidol currently uses 77% domestically sourced components, with a target of 93% at mass production. It operates offline for functions including speech and movement and features 19 servos in its face to display 12 basic emotions. The device is intended for use in services, industry, and public spaces. 

Earlier, it was reported that Russia unveiled a ground robot armed with disposable rockets dubbed the “mini‑Solntsepyok”.

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