Robotic Dog Deployed, Aids Collapsed NYC Garage Response and Quiets Critics

A robotic dog surveilled a collapsed New York City parking garage, allowing human first responders to avoid the unstable structure.
The robotic dog, called "Spot," was designed by Boston Dynamics and acquired by the NYC Fire Department to navigate difficult terrain and gather data.
The use of robotic dogs for public safety has faced criticism over privacy and data concerns, but their use in the garage collapse is easing those concerns, according to Mayor Adams.
The NYC Police Department also acquired similar robots but faced backlash after deploying one in a hostage situation in public housing.
Boston Dynamics, the maker of the robot dog, was paid $75,000 for each base model acquired by the Fire Department.