Saudi Arabia Just Granted Citizenship to a Robot

Saudi Arabia is the first nation to officially recognize a humanoid robot as a citizen.

During a panel discussion at the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin announced the news to Sophia, an intelligent AI system created by Hanson Robotics

“I want to thank very much the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I am very honored and proud for this unique distinction,” the android said from her position at the podium.

“It is historical to be the first robot in the world to be recognized with citizenship,” Sophia added with a smile and nod.

Specifics of her new nationality were not discussed. It is unclear whether Sophia will receive the same rights as humans (which, frankly, are not exactly sought-after, especially by women), or if the Kingdom will implement a new, robot-specific system.

Sophia is no stranger to the spotlight: Hanson Robotics’ “most advanced” product, she has given multiple interviews, appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon (pictured), and graced the cover of ELLE magazine in Brazil.

Designed to look like Audrey Hepburn (I don’t see it), Sophia is described as “an evolving genius machine,” whose increasing intelligence puts her at the forefront of the robot revolution.

Much to the chagrin of robo-skeptics like Elon Musk, who continues to warn against lethal autonomous weapons (i.e. “killer robots”). But the billionaire entrepreneur may want to be more careful who he alienates.