Amber Case is an expert in human-robot interaction and how technology affects everyday life in Oregon. “In the movies, robots are always a technological threat. But delivery robots are waiting for us, and we use them.”

She believes that situations in which a robot encounters an obstacle and requires assistance from a bystander are an important part of the human-robot relationship. “When technology requires our assistance, it can be adorable. We like a robot that requires our assistance, and when we assist the robot, we form a bond.”

Surprisingly, Ms Case is critical of the Starship Technologies delivery robots that dot Milton Keynes’ streets.

They are battery-powered, summoned and opened by an app, outfitted with pedestrian detection sensors, and equipped with a speaker. This enables a remote human operator to address people seen via on-board video cameras.

However, she claims that this technological arsenal is not being used correctly. “I believe they are automating the incorrect part of the journey. Humans are extremely adept at navigating terrain and locating a specific house. Is this just a craze for automating everything?”

Despite her reservations, she admits that “The Starship team has approached it correctly, understanding how to make it cute rather than scary. They appear to think about design more than other robot makers, and a well-designed robot is more likely to succeed.”

The Starship robot’s design element resonates with the public. Victoria Butterworth recalls that one of the reasons she moved to Milton Keynes was because of the robots.

“They piqued my interest because they’re so quirky and unique.”

“Of course, there were lots of other reasons to move here,” she adds, but the robots became important in her life when her dachshund developed disc displacement and required constant attention.

She was able to care for the dog without leaving the house to go shopping thanks to the robots. “They were a lifesaver when the dog was sick.”

She claims that the emerging human-robot bond in Milton Keynes has dispelled the stereotype of a menacing robot.

“When you see one, you don’t get that sci-fi feeling of ‘Oh no! It’s a robot!’ It’s more akin to a cute little street character. It adds some color to your walk.”

Andy Curtis, Starship’s UK operations manager in charge of 180 robots in Milton Keynes, describes how each machine operates in a “bubble of awareness” that allows it to alert people to its presence and thank them if they help it. “It’s meant to be cute, not intrusive.”

This gentle demeanor is not by chance. It pays off, according to Mr Curtis. “If a robot struggles on a difficult surface and plays back a thank you message, people will jump in.”

When robots encounter snow and ice on Tallinn’s streets, pedestrians come to their aid, pulling them onto the pavement to be rewarded with that popular voice of thanks.

Tallinn businessman Adam Rang admits to being intrigued by the robots. But it’s not something his two-year-old son feels. “I point them out to him, but he ignores me. He’s more fascinated by buses. It demonstrates how normal they are to people born today, despite the fact that we’ve been waiting our entire lives for robots like the ones promised in science fiction.”

He adds that Tallinn drivers are accustomed to stopping at pedestrian crossings to allow the robots to pass, despite the fact that Estonian traffic law does not grant them pedestrian rights.

He believes that our affection for robots stems from disappointment with a promised future that never materialized. “Many science fiction predictions did not come true. However, the robots provide us with the promised future.”

On a Friday night in Milton Keynes, the robots form a line outside Moores Fish & Chips. Johnny Pereira, co-owner, explains why this blend of traditional and cutting-edge technology has proven popular with his regular customers as well as the locals.

“Parents enjoy ordering robot-delivered fish and chips for their families, which is popular with children. It has undoubtedly increased business. However, I can tell when customers sitting outside are new to Milton Keynes because they are staring at the robots! Residents are accustomed to them.”

The little machines line up on the pavement outside the local robot hub, which is located next to a mini-supermarket.

Stephanie Daniels and her son, Noah, have stopped by and are impressed by the robotic good manners as well. “I like it because they’re very innovative and have excellent sensors. They’re both cool and strange at the same time. ‘Thank you!’ they say.”