Boston Dynamics lit up the stage at “America’s Got Talent” with a dance performance featuring its four-legged robots moving rhythmically to Queen’s hit “Don’t Stop Me Now.”
The robotic ensemble captivated the judges, securing four decisive “yes” votes despite an unexpected malfunction mid-performance. As their coordinated routine unfolded, one robot suddenly stopped moving and went offline, leaving the remaining four robots to complete the routine seamlessly, demonstrating impressive adaptability to the unforeseen event.
Judge Simon Cowell, reflecting on the mishap afterward, remarked, “Can I be honest with you? It was weirdly better that one of them died—because it showed how difficult this was.” Indeed, the technical difficulty of such precision choreography became apparent through this brief moment of failure.
This kind of imperfection stands in stark contrast to the polished public image historically associated with Boston Dynamics’ creations. For years, the company maintained a perfect facade for its robots—billed as futuristic and flawless—only recently offering glimpses into the rigorous development process that includes inevitable trial and error. Previously, Boston Dynamics openly shared footage of its Atlas robot failing during challenging maneuvers like parkour, emphasizing that pushing technological boundaries inherently involves occasional setbacks.
While flawless performances may impress audiences, imperfections might just leave a more lasting impression—recalling viral moments like the memorable deflated Pikachu parade incident. In fact, by showcasing a real-time technical challenge on national television, Boston Dynamics gave millions of viewers a relatable introduction to the complex realities of advanced robotics.
