The Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced today (November 9) that the "Robots in the Community" Pilot Programme is now open for applications from eligible organisations to borrow robots for demonstrations and performances at free community events. The application deadline is November 20, 2026, and applying is free of charge.

     By lending a humanoid robot named "Smart Bot" (see Annexes 1 and 2) for free to participate in events organised by community organisations, the Pilot Programme enables members of the public to interact with humanoid robots firsthand, thereby enhancing citizens' understanding of embodied AI.

     Applicants must be an organisation established to serve the public or residents of a region in Hong Kong, such as a company, a society, an office of a member of the Legislative Council/District Council, a district organisation or a welfare agency. The proposed community events under this round of applications must be held during the period from December 15, 2026, to February 28, 2027. "Smart Bot" can perform dancing and kung fu at community events; it can also transform into a popular science ambassador to share knowledge of embodied AI and other digital technologies with participants. For details of the programme, please visit the webpage (www.digitalpolicy.gov.hk/en/our_work/digital_infrastructure/digital_inclusion/robots_in_the_community/).

     The DPO is committed to taking forward digital government services and actively narrowing the digital divide. To enable people from different backgrounds to enjoy the benefits brought about by digital technology, the DPO has rolled out a series of measures under the "Smart Silver" Digital Inclusion Programme to assist persons in need (especially the elderly) in understanding and using digital products and services, helping them fully integrate into the digitalised society. The "Robots in the Community" Pilot Programme will become the newest member of the "Smart Silver" Programme, further promoting digital inclusion.

Ends/Monday, November 9, 2026
Issued at HKT 16:00

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