Robot Dogs: 'Pack Assistants' Now Equipped With Surveillance Technologyb But What's the Concern?

When robot dogs first came out, they were introduced as military aides. Its tasks are similar to what real canines do. They accompany the soldiers and carry their weapons during the trip.

Because of the ever-growing innovation, these "pack mules" are upgraded with high-tech items, including sensors, surveillance cameras, and better batteries.

The authorities are strategizing how these four-legged machines could help the community. While they contribute to society, they also pose risks to the people.

Robot Dogs as Mobile Surveillance Data Platforms

When you witness how a robot dog moves on the road, you can see how it perfectly copies the movement of a real dog. It does not have a head or a tail, but it can run, duck, or climb on terrain.

One of the most popular robotics companies to date is Boston Dynamics. Recently, footage showing a similar machine that the company made has made rounds online.

Tech Times reported that a robot dog is seen firing an assault rifle in a video. Many people are amused by it, but some expressed concerns about its potential danger.

Another company that excels in creating "pack assistants" is Ghost Robotics. The firm touts "surveillance" as the most usual feature for the machine, per Fast Company.

Speaking of surveillance, the robot dogs come with updated parts, particularly the cameras for surveying the area. Indeed, it can now take charge of spying on an area, but the most controversial concern is how it collects data.

It should be noted that the collected data is accessible--that's why it's also shareable and minable.

Robot Dogs in Law Enforcement

The heavy reliance on robot dogs could mean that the authorities should invest a lot of money to maintain these machines. They are deemed helpful to the police when it comes to security.

For instance, the New York City Police Department has previously deployed some known as "Digidogs," to roam dangerous areas in a particular city or state.

However, the authorities immediately halted the use of the robot dogs when they failed to inform the public about them. Some people questioned their reliability, while others were doubtful if they were safe to use.

It will take some time before the public gets into this trend. The authorities should also consider the cultural and political beliefs of the people in the community before deploying the automated bots.

Data Collection Sparks Concern

The issue in the data-collecting capability of the robot dog is put to the test since no one knows what data is particularly gathered. There's no indication if they go to the database or not.

In some way, this technology could put someone's life at risk. As such, hackers and other criminals can use their data for illegal activities.

Speaking of the robot dog, NewsWeek reported that Russia has recently introduced a walking machine that can carry firearms. It will reportedly be used for the ongoing war against the neighboring country.

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Joseph Henry