Singapore deploys robotic patrol ‘dogs’ to encourage social distancing

Singapore has announced plans to deploy robotic dogs on its streets in an effort to foster social distancing while the pandemic lasts.

The government had stated Friday that the famous yellow and black canine robotic dog called Spot, created by BostonDynamics, would patrol local parks and streets announcing a pre-recorded message on the importance of practicing social distancing.

The roaming machine will bear a camera to track and estimate the amount of people gathered in specific locations.

“These cameras will not be able to track and/or recognize specific individuals, and no personal data will be collected,” the government stated.

“Unlike wheeled robots, Spot works well across different terrains and can navigate obstacles effectively, making it ideal for operation in public parks and gardens,” it noted.

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The project would run for two weeks on trial and should extend based on results.

Meanwhile, through series of recent spikes, Singapore now has 21,707 Covid-19 cases, 20 deaths and 2,040 recoveries since the pandemic struck the region.

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