Shenzhen has taken a bold step into the future of law enforcement with the introduction of humanoid robots on police patrols. These high-tech machines, dressed in bright vests, are turning heads as they engage with the public in real-time.

Dubbed PM01, these humanoid robots stand at 1.38 meters tall and weigh 40 kilograms, each costing approximately 88,000 yuan (RM54,000). What sets them apart is their impressive agility capable of fluid movements, navigating complex terrains, and even performing front flips.

Developed by Shenzhen-based startup EngineAI, the PM01 is powered by advanced reinforcement learning algorithms. These allow the robots to walk naturally, process voice commands, and interact dynamically with their surroundings. A widely shared video showcases a PM01 walking in sync with human officers, greeting pedestrians, and responding to instructions with remarkable accuracy.

Public reactions have been a mix of fascination and skepticism. Some see the PM01 as a futuristic step toward enhanced public safety, while others question its practical effectiveness beyond engagement. Online discussions have drawn comparisons to sci-fi icons like RoboCop and Iron Man, with many pondering the broader implications of automation in daily life.

For now, the PM01 remains a supporting tool rather than a replacement for human officers. However, its presence signals a growing trend in the integration of robotics into law enforcement, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for automated policing.

Source: South China Morning Post