Humanoid robots win half-marathon: progress or fascination?
A humanoid robot has broken the world record for the half-marathon in Beijing, sparking debates on the usefulness and ethics of these technologies
Contesto
In brief - Humanoid robot sets world record in half marathon in Beijing - Record time: 50 minutes and 26 seconds - Philosopher Francesca Rigotti: "We don't need robots that run" ## Key facts - What: Humanoid robot sets world record in half marathon - When: April 19, 2026 - Where: Beijing, China - Who: Robot developed by Honor (Huawei subsidiary) - Time: 50 minutes and 26 seconds for 21 km In Beijing, for the first time, humanoid robots have beaten human athletes in a half marathon. The winning robot, developed by the Chinese brand Honor (a subsidiary of Huawei), completed the 21 kilometers in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, beating the world record set just one month ago by Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo in Lisbon. A significant leap from 2025, when most robots had not even managed to cross the finish line. ### Utility or fascination? The news quickly went viral worldwide, but beyond the stopwatch and technology, one might wonder how necessary it is to have a humanoid robot run such a distance. "We need many things in the world today, but humanoid robots running the fastest marathon... I would say no," observes philosopher and essayist Francesca Rigotti, commenting on the news. "These humanoids can be evaluated as very expensive toys. But to say that we need them, that they are necessary, I would say no." It's a simple, almost disarming response, but it immediately shifts the focus of the discussion from pure technology to a somewhat more abstract but profound concept. Utility or ancient fascination? Engineers often tell us that this type of robot can have concrete industrial applications. However, the question is whether these robots effectively solve real human problems. "I'm hesitant to say that humans are solving problems through humanoids," she states. "I feel more confiden...
Dettagli operativi
Practical Applications and Implications for Cross-Border Workers The technology of humanoid robots could have concrete implications in various sectors, including elderly care and healthcare. However, as Francesca Rigotti points out, the risk is that technology, from being a useful tool, might gradually shift towards a replacement that impoverishes human relationships. "We wouldn't like to end up in a nursing home, let alone see ourselves being brought medicine or a bowl of soup in the evening by a nurse with a little dress, knowing it's a robot," says the philosopher. "Perhaps the first time it will amuse us, surprise us, and we'll say: how nice! But the second and third time, we'll look for a hand, and I would say a warm hand. It will never be the same thing." In an aging society, the issue of elderly care becomes increasingly concrete. Cross-border workers employed in the healthcare sector in Switzerland might find themselves having to deal with these new technologies in their daily work. It is important to consider how these innovations might influence the relationship between healthcare workers and patients, as well as the impact on the quality of life of the elderly. ### Future Scenarios According to the philosopher, seeing these robots in everyday life is not at all a distant hypothesis. Ten years? Perhaps even less. The presence of the humanoid is not just a matter of wonder, but also of responsibility. When a machine makes decisions or acts in real contexts, ethics must be considered. For cross-border workers in Switzerland, the introduction of these technologies could mean new opportunities for training and specialization. However, it is crucial that the integration of humanoid robots occurs in an ethical manner and respectful of human needs, avoiding the c...
Punti chiave
What to do concretely For cross-border workers in the healthcare sector, it is important to be aware of new technologies and their implications. Here are some concrete steps that can be taken: 1. Training and updating: Participate in training courses and updates on new technologies and their practical applications. 2. Consultation with experts: Consult experts in the field to better understand the ethical and practical implications of new technologies. 3. Access to resources: Use tools such as the salary calculator and insurance comparator to better understand the tax and insurance implications of new technologies. 4. Participation in debates: Participate in debates and discussions on the topic to stay updated and share your experiences with other professionals. ### Deadlines and procedures There are no specific deadlines related to the introduction of humanoid robots, but it is important to stay updated on new regulations and possible tax and insurance implications. Cross-border workers should monitor official communications and participate in events and conferences on the topic to stay informed. ### Useful tools To better understand the tax and insurance implications of new technologies, cross-border workers can use tools such as the salary calculator and insurance comparator. These tools can help calculate withholding taxes and compare the different insurance options available. ### Final CTA For more information and to use useful tools, visit the salary calculator and the insurance comparator. These tools can help you better understand the tax and insurance implications of new technologies and make informed decisions. Source: rsi.ch
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the practical applications of humanoid robots?
- Humanoid robots can have practical applications in various sectors, including elderly care and healthcare. However, it's important to consider the ethical and practical implications of their introduction.
- How can cross-border workers prepare for the introduction of humanoid robots?
- Cross-border workers can prepare by attending training courses, consulting industry experts, and using tools like the salary calculator and insurance comparator.
- What are the tax and insurance implications of humanoid robots?
- The introduction of humanoid robots could have tax and insurance implications for cross-border workers. It's important to use tools like the salary calculator and insurance comparator to better understand these implications.