Averting a Robot Catastrophe: Preparing for Converging Trends in Robotics and Frontier AI

This working paper assesses the convergence of trends in robotics and frontier artificial intelligence (AI) systems, particularly the national security risk that results from the potential for the proliferation of robotic embodiments of artificial general intelligence (AGI). This paper highlights that while the benefits of advanced robotic capabilities are likely to outweigh the associated risks in many contexts, the combination of AGI with robots featuring high mobility and dexterous manipulation could introduce significant systemic vulnerabilities. Policymakers face challenges in balancing the need for safety and security with economic competitiveness, as there are no straightforward regulatory options that effectively limit risky combinations of capabilities without hindering innovation. We conclude by stressing the urgency of proactively addressing this issue now rather than waiting until the technologies are fully deployed, to ensure responsible governance and risk management in the evolving landscape of robotics and AI.