Is the Video a 'Humanoid' Robot in London? We Investigate
In February 2026, a video circulated online, seemingly showing a 'humanoid robot' in London. The clip, recorded in Hoxton, East London, featured the 'robot' interacting with young people, answering questions about its name and creator. However, upon closer inspection, it appears to be a woman in a costume, as evidenced by her brief laughter at the 00:28 mark. The 'robot' is believed to be 'Joy', an invention by AI company Joyous AI, described as 'The World's First Indistinguishable from Human, Humanoid Robot'. Joyous AI has posted several videos of their 'robot' appearing across London. The company is set to unveil 'Joy' at an event titled 'Joy In The Flesh' on February 27, 2026, in London. The reason for the walkabout in Hoxton remains unclear. This incident raises questions about the authenticity of 'humanoid robots' in public spaces, as similar instances have been reported at London Bridge train station in 2023, where humans in costumes were promoting a sci-fi movie. Additionally, a tech publication reported that 90% of the world's humanoid robots are produced in China, with highly developed companies even organizing all-robot soccer matches. The article invites readers to send tips if they have more information on the video's origin.
