Humanoid robots are moving rapidly towards everyday use, but the UK’s laws and safeguards are lagging behind, an Edinburgh-based AI expert has warned.
Dr Carl Strathearn, a lecturer in computer science and autonomous social robotics at Edinburgh Napier University, says falling costs mean humanoid robots are becoming increasingly affordable, yet there are still no specific UK rules governing how they can be used in public spaces, around children or in situations where people could be harmed.
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Speaking ahead of his session at DataFest 2026, Scotland’s national data and AI conference, Dr Strathearn said the technology is advancing faster than regulation and public understanding, and urged policymakers to act now rather than waiting for a serious incident.
The Data Lab’s flagship event in Edinburgh brings together business leaders, technologists and policymakers to explore how data and AI are reshaping the economy, including debates on trust, regulation and the long-term impact of emerging technologies.
A full analysis of Dr Strathearn’s warnings and what they mean for Scotland’s tech sector is available on Silicon Scotland here.
