Published on: December 15, 2024 / Update from: December 15, 2024 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
In China, the police use ball robots like the RT-G from Logon Technology to fight crime - Image: Logon Technology
The RT-G police robot in China
Advanced technology in policing
The introduction of spherical police robots in China, known as “RT-G,” marks a notable step in the ongoing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics into security-related areas. These round machines, developed by Chinese robotics company Logon Technology, represent an important milestone in modern law enforcement, according to Chinese authorities. Their use is intended to help increase the efficiency of police work, minimize dangers and promote a stronger public service overall to ensure safety. High expectations are placed on this technological innovation, while at the same time controversial discussions about ethical and legal issues arise.
Specifications and mobility of the RT-G robots
“This new generation of police robots is designed to help us respond more quickly to threats and identify criminals more accurately,” said a Chinese police spokesperson, highlighting the advantages of the RT-G models. The robots have a diameter of around 60 centimeters and weigh around 125 kilograms. Their distinctive, spherical shape clearly distinguishes them from other robot systems that have previously been used in the security sector. Using a central wheel that is barely visible from the outside, the RT-G moves extremely nimbly through urban landscapes and can even operate on difficult terrain. “Our developers placed a lot of emphasis on robustness, mobility and versatility,” explains an engineer from Logon Technology. “The RT-G must be able to remain operational on both paved roads and muddy surfaces, and it must be able to safely avoid obstacles.”
Can also be used in aquatic environments
What is particularly impressive is the ability of the RT-G robots to move not only on land but also in water. The developers have integrated a system that allows them to propel themselves in liquid environments like a paddle steamer. They can swim on the surface and are therefore able to monitor rivers, canals or artificial watercourses in cities. This is intended to prevent criminals from escaping by water or hiding prohibited items there. “The RT-G is designed to cover as many application scenarios as possible,” said one of the project’s lead engineers.
AI-powered monitoring capabilities
Of particular interest are the RT-G's advanced AI-based capabilities. Using sensitive sensors, high-resolution cameras and appropriate software, the robot can detect unusual activities, unusual behavior patterns or suspicious objects. He uses complex algorithms that enable him to compare faces with existing police databases in order to identify wanted people. For example, the RT-G can detect potential criminals who are on site and alert the relevant authorities. “The integrated facial recognition makes it possible for us for the first time to identify people in public spaces much more quickly,” explains a police spokesman. “This not only speeds up the search, but can also help reduce false suspicions.”
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Non-lethal weapons as equipment
Another aspect that makes the RT-G robots interesting from the authorities' point of view is that they are equipped with non-lethal weapons. These include net launchers, which allow suspects to be captured without seriously injuring them, as well as tear gas launchers and sound wave dispersion devices. The latter can use targeted, loud sound impulses to encourage groups of people to disperse without causing any lasting damage. “We want to increase public safety without using unnecessary force,” emphasizes a representative of the police leadership. “The RT-G is not a device that just shoots. Rather, it is intended to support, de-escalate and help until human officers are on site.”
Practical test runs and integration into everyday police life
The current tests are taking place in selected Chinese cities to find out how this technology integrates into real police life. Particularly in densely populated urban areas, the robot can help monitor public spaces, parks, pedestrian zones, waterfront promenades or traffic junctions. The aim is not to replace human police officers, but rather to make their work easier, defuse dangerous situations and ensure faster response times. “We see the RT-G as a complement to our existing measures and not as competition to our police forces,” explains a senior police officer. “Its use allows us to use resources more specifically and monitor critical points in real time.”
Critical voices and ethical concerns
However, questions remain unanswered and public opinion is divided. While proponents see the increased security as a plus, critics raise concerns about data protection, privacy and potentially excessive surveillance. “We must not forget that behind every technical advance there is also the risk of misuse,” says a Chinese lawyer who specializes in data protection law. “Society must ask itself how far we want to go when it comes to expanding camera presence and facial recognition in public spaces.” Fears are often raised that such technologies, once established, will also be used for politically motivated surveillance or for could be used to suppress dissenting opinions.
International Perspectives: A Global Trend
However, not only China but also other countries are following this trend. In some Asian countries, the Middle East and even western cities, police authorities are already experimenting with robot-based surveillance systems. “This development shows that the use of AI and robotics in law enforcement is a global phenomenon,” says an international security expert. “Whether it’s the RT-G in China, patrol robots in Singapore, or robot dogs in the United States, we are moving to an era in which technological systems play a whole new role in security and order.”
Future prospects and potential risks
The RT-G robots in China are laying the foundation for a future scenario in which human-machine interaction in law enforcement will be completely redefined. One can imagine that future generations of these robots will be able to act even more autonomously, access even more data and make more complex decisions. “One goal is for the RT-G not only to observe, but also to analyze behavior patterns in the long term, to recognize possible dangers in advance and to initiate preventative measures,” emphasizes a Chinese AI researcher. This could mean that in the future such robots will not only react to injustice that has already occurred, but will also prevent criminal acts from occurring.
The future of police work will also be shaped by robots and AI systems
The introduction of the RT-G clearly shows that law enforcement is undergoing comprehensive change. With these new technologies, traditional police work, which for decades was primarily characterized by human presence and reactive action, is given an instrument that is intended to make information gathering, threat prevention and surveillance more efficient. New paths are being taken which, on the one hand, offer opportunities, but on the other hand also create a lot of room for abuse.
In any case, China has sent a clear signal with the RT-G: the future of police work will increasingly be shaped by robots and AI systems. Whether this ultimately leads to a fairer, more transparent and safer society will depend on the way these technologies are developed, regulated and deployed in the coming years.
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