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The New York City subway system has decided to retire its controversial security robot, K-5, after a brief deployment of just over five months at the bustling Times Square station.
According to AFP, the robot, resembling a combination of Star Wars elements and a Smart Car, was pulled from service and placed in a storage lot due to the challenges it faced during its tenure.
Commuters ride the New York City Subway on November 5, 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic continues worldwide.
K-5 Robot’s Introduction to the New York Subway Scene
K-5 was introduced in September 2023 amid significant attention, drawing in support and criticism at the same time. The robot boasted multiple cameras and a help button for commuters.
However, reports have risen claiming that the robot’s operational efficiency was marred by frequent charging breaks, the necessity for human officers to accompany it, and an incapability to navigate stairs.
A police spokesman told AFP that the Knightscope K-5 completed its pilot deployment in the NYC subway system, signaling the end of its role in the city’s transit security efforts.
Commenting on the robot’s performance, Albert Fox Cahn, the executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, noted: “I said this was a trash can on wheels, but it looks like the wheels aren’t even working at this point.”
Critics questioned the allocation of resources to such technology, especially considering budget cuts across city agencies and a decrease in major crimes.
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New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ Tech-Centric Approach to Fighting Crimes
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, has advocated incorporating technology into crime-fighting strategies. However, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness and cost of these high-tech solutions.
In addition to the retired security robot, the New York Police Department had previously introduced a $74,000 robotic dog in April 2023. This robotic dog was equipped with cameras, a two-way communication system, and lights for emergency situations.
The city has also embraced other technologies like drones, facial recognition cameras, and Starchase, a GPS location system to track fleeing vehicles without engaging in high-speed pursuits.
Cahn conveyed doubt regarding the ongoing financial commitment to these technologies, asserting that surveillance was advocated as the solution during rising crime nationwide.
“But now crime is plummeting across the country, including cities that banned these dystopian devices. If we don’t have money to keep the library doors open, we definitely don’t have cash for creepy robots,” said Cahn, as AFP reported.
However, the mayor credited technology for contributing to the city’s declining crime rate, emphasizing the role of equipment like drones and advanced surveillance in collaboration with Assistant Commissioner Kaz Daughtry’s efforts to identify suitable technology for law enforcement.
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