Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Russia’s AIdol Humanoid Falls During Moscow Debut, Prompting Probe

Developers attribute the fall to a calibration error, keeping the prototype offstage for checks.

Overview

  • The November 10 unveiling at Moscow’s Yarovit Hall Congress Center was halted after AIdol lost balance, fell face-first, and was hastily covered and dragged off with broken parts visible.
  • Idol CEO Vladimir Vitukhin said the mishap stemmed from calibration issues during the robot’s testing phase and framed it as a learning experience.
  • Engineers removed the unit from public view to inspect its balance systems and control software, with the project remaining in active development.
  • Footage of the fall went viral on social media, fueling mockery and raising questions about Russia’s readiness to compete in the global humanoid robotics race.
  • Developers tout 77% Russian-made components with a goal of 93%, a 48-volt battery rated for up to six hours, and 19 servomotors for facial expressions, with some reports noting a brief post-incident return to the stage standing upright.