An uncanny humanoid robot is working at a government office in Russia — here's how it works

Humanoid Promobot in Russia.Photo by Maxim Kimerling\TASS via Getty Images

• A humanoid robot is the first to work in a civil service office in Russia.
• The robot was made by Philadelphia-based Promobot.
• Previously, a Promobot was spotted around New York City surveying people about possible coronavirus symptoms before getting banned from a park.

Promobot's most recent robot sits firmly in uncanny valley, working as a civil servant in Perm, Russia. The humanoid robot can process documents and file requests into the local government information system.

Back in February, the company gained attention after sending its robots around New York City and surveying passersby about possible COVID-19 symptoms. It asked people questions about symptoms, gave advice about avoiding the virus, and handed out face masks, and the company says it performed similar surveys in Mexico in March. Promobot was kicked out of Bryant Park in New York for lacking proper permits.

Take a look at the new robot.