Macau Woman Briefly Hospitalised After Being Frightened by Humanoid Robot
A woman in Macau had to be taken to hospital after being startled by a humanoid robot while she was on an evening walk and using her mobile phone. According to police, she did not suffer any physical injuries but felt unwell and required medical attention. A video shared widely on social media showed the woman confronting the robot angrily as it waved its metallic arms, drawing a crowd of onlookers. She expressed her irritation in Cantonese, asking the robot why it was bothering her. Police confirmed that there was no physical contact and that the woman has since been discharged without pressing charges. The robot, operated by a Macanese man in his 50s, was undergoing a test and was intended for promoting his business. Police reminded the operator to be cautious to avoid causing danger or alarm to people nearby. The robot resembles models made by the Chinese startup Unitree, which are known for their dexterity, capable of dancing, racing, and performing flips. Fully autonomous robots remain uncommon, with most displays being pre-programmed or remotely controlled.
