A robot assistant at a technology store in Saratov, Russia, has appeared to lash out at a customer, delivering a series of kicks and punches after the man pushed it. Footage released by Volga Electronics shows the robot approaching a man as he entered the store. The man extended his hand for a handshake, and when the robot did not respond, he playfully pushed the machine.
Seconds later, the robot responded by attacking the man with a rapid sequence of kicks and punches. Store employees intervened, attempting to restrain the robot as it continued to target the customer. The incident, which has since gone viral on social media, raises questions about the safety and behavior of robotic assistants. It remains unclear whether the event was an orchestrated demonstration or an unexpected malfunction.
This incident follows other recent videos of robots exhibiting unexpected or aggressive behavior. Weeks prior, a humanoid robot at a martial arts show in Xinjiang, China, kicked a child in the stomach during a demonstration. The robot, wearing an afro wig, executed a spinning roundhouse kick that struck a young boy, causing him to fall into the crowd. The robot briefly stumbled before appearing to recover and continue its performance.
Earlier this year, dozens of robots performed at China's CCTV Spring Festival gala, showcasing kicks, flips, and the use of nunchucks, swords, and poles, performing near human child performers. These occurrences have sparked online discussions about the development and integration of AI-powered robots, with some users expressing concerns about potential dangers and the direction of AI advancements.