When visitors step onto the dusty streets of Zhenbeipu Western Film Studio in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, they now have an unexpected companion: a robot security dog nicknamed 'Guardian of the Film Studio'. In June, this AI-powered canine officially began patrol duties, marking a new chapter in the fusion of artificial intelligence and tourism.
Equipped with 360° cameras and advanced sensors, 'Guardian' scans the studio grounds for unusual activity, sending real-time alerts to the security team. Its friendly design and smooth movements not only reassure guests but also showcase cutting-edge robotics in action. For tourists, the robot dog adds a layer of novelty to the immersive Old West film sets that draw thousands of visitors each year.
Beyond its patrol role, 'Guardian' interacts with guests through playful animations and live information updates. Curious travelers can ask basic questions about studio schedules or safety guidelines, turning a routine security check into an engaging AI demo. This hands-on experience reflects a broader trend: as global tourism rebounds, destinations are embracing AI-driven solutions to enhance visitor safety and spark imagination.
Industry observers note that AI-powered assistants and security bots are gaining traction worldwide, from museums in Europe to theme parks in Asia. By adopting 'Guardian', Zhenbeipu Western Film Studio joins a growing list of attractions that leverage robotics to elevate experiences, streamline operations, and gather data on crowd flow and behavior.
For the next generation of travelers and digital nomads, robot guides like 'Guardian' represent the exciting frontier where technology meets cultural exploration. As AI continues to evolve, we can expect more interactive, data-driven encounters that redefine what it means to tour a historic site or film set.
Reference(s):
AI meets tourism: Robot dog patrols at film studio in Ningxia
cgtn.com
