New Zealand Police has recruited an Artificial Intelligence (AI) cop called Ella to the force. New Zealand’s Intela AI and Soul Machines led the AI and digital human development of the AI cop. AI cop Ella: Ella is a life-like virtual assistant. It uses real-time animation to emulate face-to-face interaction in an empathetic way. It will be stationed in the lobby of the force’s national headquarters in Wellington from 17 February. It will welcome visitors to the building, telling the staff that they’ve arrived, and directing them to collect their passes. It can talk to visitors about certain issues, such as the force’s non-emergency number and police vetting procedures. After reviewing its current roles, a range of new responsibilities will be added in the future.
