In a surprising move, the New York Police Department (NYPD) has reinstated the use of the controversial Spot robot dog, also known as “Digidog,” for “hazardous situations.” This decision was made by the current mayor, Eric Adams, who believes that technology should not be feared but embraced. The NYPD will purchase two robots for $750,000, but they will only be used in critical situations like hostage scenarios.
Spot/Digidog is manufactured by Hyundai’s Boston Dynamics and was initially designed for security and inspection purposes. The French army also tested it for reconnaissance and combat operations. During its previous deployment with the NYPD, it was utilized to gather intelligence in dangerous situations like a gunman barricaded inside a building and a home invasion. However, privacy and surveillance concerns were raised by critics, and then-mayor Bill de Blasio opted to cancel the lease on the robot.
Mayor Adams, on the other hand, believes that Digidog can be an asset to the NYPD in critical situations. He stated that a few vocal opponents should not be allowed to dictate public policy, and that he would always prioritize what is best for the city. The robot’s reinstatement is part of a broader effort by the NYPD to modernize its security and surveillance technology. Two other types of tech, the Guardian HX from StarChase and the Knightscope’s K5 ASR, were also announced for testing.
The Guardian HX is a GPS tracking device that can be fired from a handheld or car-mounted launcher, allowing officers to track vehicles without engaging in high-speed chases. The K5 ASR, on the other hand, is an autonomous outdoor security robot that the NYPD wants to use for intelligence gathering.
Mayor Adams hopes that these new technologies will transform public safety in the city. However, not everyone is thrilled about the return of Digidog. Albert Fox Cahn from the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project expressed concern that the NYPD was turning science fiction into terrible policing. He argued that New Yorkers deserve genuine safety rather than a knockoff from Robocop.
The NYPD’s reinstatement of the Spot robot dog has generated mixed reactions. While some see it as a positive step towards modernizing public safety, others fear that it could lead to increased surveillance and potential privacy violations. Only time will tell whether this controversial decision will pay off for the city.
