US school suspends launch of humanoid robot teacher due to developer’s ties to sex doll manufacturer
The Salamanca City School District in New York has shelved a pilot project to introduce a humanoid robot into the classroom, following a barrage of criticism from educators and the local community, who were outraged by the developer’s background and potential threats to student privacy.
As The Guardian reports , the project planned to integrate a robot named Sally, worth about $58,000, from the technology company Realbotix, into the high school.
According to a June press release from the manufacturer, the silicone-skinned machine was supposed to use artificial intelligence to hold conversations, mimic facial expressions, and interact in real time. The initiative was said to be aimed at encouraging students to learn about new technologies.
But the main cause of outrage was the fact that Realbotix acquired Simulacra, a Las Vegas-based sex doll manufacturer, two years ago. Melinda Person, president of the New York State Teachers Union, sharply condemned the initiative, saying that work created by a company with such a reputation has no place in the classroom.
“Our students don’t need robots. They need real relationships with caring adults. Educators notice when students are struggling, celebrate their successes, and help them reach their potential. No robot can do this, no matter how realistic its skin,” Person emphasized.
Local teachers have also raised concerns about the software’s security. The head of the Salamanca Teachers’ Association, Lacey Pilblad, drew attention to unclear algorithms for collecting and storing data, and the ability to record information during lessons.
The choice of location for the testing was also a source of criticism. The school is located on the Seneca Nation reservation and serves a significant Native American population. Substitute teacher Sierra Mae Abrams called the decision to test the latest technology on Native American children “absolutely insane,” citing the complex historical trauma associated with local residential schools.
After the program was suspended, Realbotix CEO Andrew Kigel told New York Focus that the company respects the school’s decision. He stressed that the robot was created solely as an auxiliary tool for teachers, not a replacement, and that the developers are ready to undergo all necessary tests to confirm the product’s safety.
Previously, dev.ua published an article about a new format of private education in the United States , which is gaining popularity, where instead of traditional lessons, homework, and teachers, everything is managed by artificial intelligence, personalized learning programs, and the development of practical skills.
