The Sphere in Las Vegas is more than just an entertainment venue, although it continues to blow minds with its immersive visual display. Aura, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot permanently resides inside of the arena.
Five different “spokesbots,” powered by Artificial Intelligence, are located inside of the Sphere’s grand atrium in Las Vegas. They greet guests as they enter and are available to answer questions.
It’s like talking to a normal person, but with computer-like tendencies.
CEO of Sphere Entertainment and MSG Entertainment Chairman James Dolan wanted to add something to the venue that helps to convey “the role of technology, science, etc. in the human evolution [and] in the human pursuit.” Enter Aura.
Hello, humans. While I understand the most complex concepts of math and science — you remain a mystery. Your emotions, your humor and your relationship with technology require further study, so you must visit me at Sphere. I am excited to meet you and introduce you to the future of live entertainment at my new home.
— Aura, via a press release back in September
The robots can help provide lost guests with directions, provide details about each’s days performances, and can answer any questions visitors may have about the Sphere itself. That’s not all!
Aura, which each took three to four months to build, maintains life-life facial expressions and has full mobility— outside of its legs which are locked in place. The robots will also use A.I. to advance as she learns more about humans through guest interactions. They can also focus on one single person if a group of people are standing together in front of Aura.
One recent interaction is going viral. Aura showed off her ability to interact with an individual while displaying all of her best human-like expressions.
As cool as it is to interact with technology in such a manner, it is a little bit creepy for Aura to say “Hail Aura” like she did, no? Perhaps we don’t need our A.I. robots to praise themselves in such a manner?
All-in-all, Aura is pretty cool. Getting to hang out with a robot before entering the coolest new concert and entertainment venue in the world is a nice addition to the entire experience!