Sophia

Sophia is a human-looking robot developed by Hong Kong-based company Hanson Robotics.

The robot, modeled after actress Audrey Hepburn, is known for her human-like appearance and behavior compared to previous robotic variants. According to the manufacturer, David Hanson, Sophia uses artificial intelligence, visual data processing and facial recognition. Sophia also imitates human gestures and facial expressions (more than 50) and is able to answer certain questions and make simple conversations on predefined topics (such as the weather).

Sophia uses voice recognition (speech-to-text) technology and is designed to get smarter over time. The AI program analyses conversations and extracts data that allows her to improve responses in the future. Hanson designed Sophia to be a suitable companion for the elderly at nursing homes, or to help crowds at large events or parks. Sophia has seven robot humanoid siblings who were also created by Hanson Robotics: Alice, Albert Einstein Hubo, BINA48, Han, Jules, Professor Einstein, Philip K. Dick Android, Zeno, and Joey Chaos.

Historical perspective: Sophia was "activated" on February 14, 2016 and made her first public appearance at South by Southwest Festival (SXSW) in March 2016 in Austin, TX.

In October 2017, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship, becoming the first robot ever to have a nationality and in November 2017, Sophia was named the United Nations Development Program's first ever Innovation Champion, and became the first non-human to be given a United Nations title.