In a bizarre and chaotic incident that has captivated the internet, a dancing humanoid robot went berserk at a popular hotpot restaurant in California, sending food flying and forcing staff into a frantic struggle to apprehend it. The shocking moment, captured on video, shows the robot's routine performance taking a dramatic turn, highlighting both the comical and concerning aspects of automation in public spaces.
Chaos Erupts During Promotional Dance
The scene unfolded at the Haidilao hotpot restaurant in San Jose, California, where customers were enjoying their meals. As part of what appears to have been a promotional event for Disney's 'Zootopia 2', a humanoid robot began showcasing a dance routine to entertain diners. Initially, the performance seemed harmless, with the robot waving its arms and shaking its hips to impress the audience.
Robot Slams Table, Sending Food Airborne
However, the situation quickly escalated when the robot suddenly slammed its hands down on a table during the dance. This forceful action sent chopsticks and bright yellow sauce flying into the air, creating a messy and unexpected spectacle. Immediately, staff raced over to intervene, attempting to turn off the malfunctioning machine.
Despite their efforts, the humanoid continued to dance throughout the altercation, forcing three employees to wrestle with it. In a desperate attempt to control the robot, one staff member was seen holding it by a large handle at the back of its neck while searching on her phone, presumably to locate the controls. The employees had to periodically duck out of the way to avoid being hit by the robot's waving hands, adding to the chaos.
Viral Reaction and Safety Concerns
The clip has since gone viral online, sparking a mix of amusement and concern among viewers. Many found the malfunction comical, with one person joking that 'this puts a new spin on "doing the robot"', while another warned, 'this is how the takeover begins'. However, not all reactions were lighthearted; one concerned viewer pointed out, 'All jokes aside, shouldn't there always be a big red button or a kill switch somewhere on the robot?', raising valid questions about safety protocols.
Speculation on Robot Model and Chain's Automation
Online commentators have speculated that the humanoid might be an AGIBOT X2, a machine known for its humanoid gait, complex dance routines, and coordinated head movements. Haidilao, the restaurant chain involved, is run by a company recognized for investing in automated kitchens featuring robot chefs and robot food deliveries, according to Chinese business and financial news website Jiemian Global. This incident underscores the growing integration of robotics in the hospitality industry.
Luckily, the customers at the scene did not seem to mind their food being thrown around, as they could be heard hysterically laughing during the ordeal. Some online users humorously noted the robot's persistence, with one saying it 'has no regrets' and 'just wants to dance', while another remarked, 'This is the most human thing a robot has ever done. Hated the job, made a scene, no regrets.' A third added, 'This is how the "Terminator" timeline actually begins. Not with a bang, but with a boogie.'
Recent Incidents Highlight Robot Risks
This is not the first time an out-of-control robot has made headlines recently. Earlier this week, a humanoid robot was detained by police in China after terrifying an elderly woman. According to local authorities, the 70-year-old woman was startled when she suddenly noticed the robot standing behind her. A viral clip shows her yelling and waving her bag at the diminutive bot, which repeatedly raised its arms in the air.
Footage then shows two police officers escorting the Unitree G1 robot down the road, with one leading it by its shoulder. While the robot was not officially arrested, police removed it from the scene and returned it to its operator, a man in his 50s, who was reminded to exercise caution. These incidents collectively highlight the unpredictable nature of robotics and the need for robust safety measures in public deployments.
As automation continues to advance, such events serve as a reminder of the balance between innovation and practicality. Haidilao has been contacted for comment about the incident, but as of now, the full details of the malfunction remain under scrutiny. The viral video continues to circulate, sparking debates on social media about the future of robotics in everyday life.
