Boston Dynamics’ creepy robotic canine dances in sparkly blue costume

May 19, 2024

As the world celebrated #InternationalDanceDay, a unique duo took the stage, or rather, the screen, to showcase a different kind of choreography.

Spot, the quadruped robot developed by Boston Dynamics, found a new friend in Sparkles, a dazzlingly dressed counterpart designed to explore the fusion of robotics, art and entertainment.

A cartoon come to life

At first glance, the video in question seems like a whimsical animation straight out of a children’s show. Yet, this is no fiction. The footage is a testament to how far robotics has come, featuring Spot adorned in a blue, sparkly, albeit slightly creepy costume, performing a dance routine that could rival any animated character.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Meet Sparkles

“Spot is meeting another strange dog and making friends through the power of dance. Meet Sparkles!” Boston Dynamics announced. The video features two Spots — one in the recognizable black and yellow, and the other, Sparkles, in the blue, sparkly dog costume — engaging in a robotic dance-off that culminates in a mechanical kiss.

ASK ANY TECH QUESTION, AND GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY REPORT NEWSLETTER HERE

This display of robotic affection and agility has sparked conversations about the potential applications of such technology in entertainment venues like theme parks, where robots could add a layer of realism to character interactions.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Social media’s mixed moves

The reception on social media was as varied as the dance moves displayed. Some viewers were enchanted, praising the mobility and innovation, while others expressed discomfort, humorously suggesting that the cute facade could well be the stuff of nightmares.

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE NEWSLETTER, THE CYBERGUY REPORT

HUMANOID ROBOTS ARE NOW DOING THE WORK OF HUMANS IN A SPANX WAREHOUSE

Kurt’s key takeaways

After watching Spot and Sparkles bust a move together, it’s pretty wild to think about where robotics is heading. It’s like we’re watching a live-action cartoon, isn’t it? These robots are not just showing off some fancy footwork; they’re opening our eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. Whether they’re making us smile or giving us the heebie-jeebies, they’re proof that creativity knows no limits.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

How do you feel about robots displaying human-like behaviors such as dancing and kissing? Does it concern you for the future of human-robot interactions? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover

Follow Kurt on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

What is the best way to protect your Mac, Windows, iPhone and Android devices from getting hacked?What is the best way to stay private, secure and anonymous while browsing the web?How can I get rid of robocalls with apps and data removal services?