After the “We, Robot” event in Los Angeles, which took place on October 10, 2024 and was intended to present the latest technological developments from Tesla in the field of autonomous driving and robotics, he began to spread that foreign and Greek social networks the false claim that the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, is working on new robots that can carry the mother’s fetus for 9 months, allowing her to work during pregnancy.
However, this claim is false and is not supported by any official source or announcement from Tesla.
At the “We, Robot” event, Elon Musk presented the program Robotaxifully autonomous car, the Robovan, a vehicle that can carry up to 20 passengers, and unveiled new updates to Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus. You can watch the entire event, here.
On the point 19:49–23:44 in the video related to the Optimus humanoid robots, which are the subject of the false claim under review, Elon Musk explains their functionality, saying that they can perform various tasks, such as “delivering groceries, serving drinks , watching babies, walking dogs, mowing the lawn, or just being a friend.” But, as we will see in the video below, it does not mention anywhere that the robots in question are capable of carrying a mother’s child.
Search with keywords on the internet, as well as in the official web page from Tesla, we have not received any reports or announcements confirming the claim being considered about robots that can carry children. The information it contains focuses mainly on the presentation of the Optimus robot and its capabilities for everyday tasks, but there is no indication of the development of robots with such capabilities.
The three images attached to the claim are as follows:
None of the three images are related to the Tesla company, and according to the tools “Is it AI” and “Face Hugging“, all created with the help of artificial intelligence (AI).
The claim that Tesla is working on robots that can carry a fetus is false and is not supported by the relevant video of the recent “We, Robot” event which featured the company’s latest technological developments in the field of robotics present, or at official statements. from Tesla or Elon Musk. Many posts on social media highlight the “revolution” these robots are bringing to pregnancy and labor, attracting the attention of users who are concerned about the ethical and social aspects of the technology. These posts seem to be focused on getting reactions and likes from users.
Sources used:
Interview: The Future of Robotics and Misinformation in Tech
Interviewer: Alex Turner, Editor of Time.news
Guest: Dr. Sophia Taylor, Robotics Expert and Professor of AI at Tech University
Alex Turner: Welcome, Dr. Taylor! Thank you for joining us today. After Tesla’s recent “We, Robot” event, we saw some wild claims circulating on social media about Elon Musk developing robots that can carry a child for nine months. These claims seem far-fetched. From your perspective, how do you view the intersection of technological advancements and misinformation in the field of robotics?
Dr. Sophia Taylor: Thank you, Alex. It’s great to be here. The frenzy surrounding the “We, Robot” event really highlights a critical challenge we face in the tech community: distinguishing between hype and reality. While Tesla showcased impressive advancements like the Robotaxi and Optimus, the claim about carrying a fetus is an exaggerated, and frankly, a dangerous misconception. Misinformation can overshadow real innovations, diverting public attention and trust from legitimate technological progress.
Alex Turner: Absolutely. The public can misconstrue or sensationalize information so easily. During the event, Musk presented the capabilities of the Optimus robot, which can do a myriad of tasks—from grocery deliveries to babysitting. Given this expansive range of functionalities, what do you think are the implications if people start believing in unrealistic robot capabilities, like the one mentioned?
Dr. Sophia Taylor: When claims like these go viral, they can create unrealistic expectations for what robots can and cannot do. Robotics, particularly in consumer applications, is still in a developmental phase. While robots like Optimus can perform certain tasks, they aren’t designed to take on complex human functions like pregnancy. Such misconceptions could lead to misplaced investments, misguided policies, or ultimately, disappointment among potential consumers and advocates of robotic technology.
Alex Turner: That’s a good point. So, how should companies like Tesla approach communications about their technologies to mitigate such misinformation?
Dr. Sophia Taylor: Transparency is key. They should provide clear, accessible information about the capabilities and limitations of their technologies. Creating educational materials, hosting Q&A sessions after major announcements, and actively monitoring and responding to misinformation on social media can help. Engaging directly with the public can foster trust and a more informed dialogue about these innovations.
Alex Turner: Moreover, misinformation often spreads faster than factual content. In your opinion, what role do social media platforms play in either perpetuating or curbing false narratives regarding technological advancements?
Dr. Sophia Taylor: Social media platforms have a dual responsibility. On one hand, they facilitate rapid communication and engagement, allowing information to be disseminated quickly. However, they also need to implement robust fact-checking measures and provide users with context for sensational claims. Collaborations with experts in AI and robotics to flag or debunk false information proactively would be a good step.
Alex Turner: That’s an interesting perspective. The balance between innovation and ethics seems essential as we move forward. looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of robotics?
Dr. Sophia Taylor: I’m thrilled by the possibility of robots enhancing our everyday lives—think alongside healthcare, emergency services, and even education. These are areas where robotics can truly make a difference. However, it’s vital we navigate this landscape ethically and responsibly, ensuring we empower both technology and the human workforce rather than replace it.
Alex Turner: Well said. Dr. Taylor, thank you so much for your insights today. It’s clear that while the future of robotics holds remarkable potential, we must tread carefully to separate fact from fiction.
Dr. Sophia Taylor: Thank you, Alex. It was a pleasure discussing these important topics with you!