Sophia the robot is a unique combination of science , engineering and artistry . The human-crafted science fiction character depicts the future of AI and robotics .

As the world ’ s first robot citizen , and the first robot Innovation

Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme , Sophia is a global name having made appearances in worldwide conferences as well as daytime TV shows in many countries .

Here , we look at how Sophia has been developed over the years .

FOUNDING OF HANSON ROBOTICS

Hanson Robotics was founded in 2007 by David Hanson and was originally based in Texas . Since its founding 15 years ago , the team has built a worldwide reputation for creating human-like robots . Hanson founded the company to pursue his fascination with art , science fiction and philosophy that pushed him to think about what the future of robots could look like .

ACTIVATING SOPHIA

In February of 2016 , Hanson Robotics activated Sophia and the robot made its first public appearance in mid-March of the same year . Just one year later , Sophia was given Saudi Arabian citizenship , becoming the first robot to receive citizenship of any country . One month later , Sophia was named the United Nations Development Programme ' s first Innovation Champion .

16 February 2022