Robotic Guide Dogs

[Mups]

I see that scientists are now working on a robot guide dog for blind and partially sighted people.
The researchers at Glasgow Uni say . . . "It's a game changer." 

What do you feel about this -  good idea, or not?

The only 'plus'  to it I can think of is no feed or veterinary costs.

The negatives I feel are more,  like -  many people value a dog for companionship.
Something alive, warm, and responsive to their voice and touch. 
Something to give/receive affection from and to each other.
Even something to talk to.

How can a lump of metal  possibly compare?

[dextrous63]

I'm led to believe that there's a massive shortage of guide dogs and that it can take a year or two to train one, and it's ain't cheap.  So, if the robotic ones can be produced quickly, then at least they can fill the gap, maybe until a proper dog becomes available.

[Mups]

I'm led to believe that there's a massive shortage of guide dogs and that it can take a year or two to train one, and it's ain't cheap.  So, if the robotic ones can be produced quickly, then at least they can fill the gap, maybe until a proper dog becomes available.

Maybe . . .  but how many older people who can't see,  would understand technology and controls for it I wonder?

[dextrous63]

True. But if they can be used by younger more tech savvy folk, the that'll mean that older folk can have a real dog.

[Mups]

True. But if they can be used by younger more tech savvy folk, the that'll mean that older folk can have a real dog.

Maybe -  as long as a blind younger person could still see the controls.
Time will tell.

[dextrous63]

Guess it'll be down to whether they need to physically operate the robot.  Voice control sounds more likely.

[Raven]

Not for me thank you. Too much AI taking over for my liking.

[Scrumpy]

I agree... We are becoming controlled by robots..

What will our dating sites look like 20 years from now..!!
Robots meeting robots under the clock on Paddington Station..

You will meet your perfect male/female..
And by tightening a few screws baby robots will be made..

[Mups]

Not for me thank you. Too much AI taking over for my liking.

That's how I feel, too.

Trouble is,  future generations will have grown up with it,  whereas we didn't,  so they will accept it as normal everyday life.
There was nothing like these when we were little,  so to us its all futuristic and unnatural.