In the British supermarkets have "angry" security robots (5 photos + 1 video)
Category: Interesting photo stories, PEGI 0+
26 September 2024
Tesco has equipped its stores with PID360 security robots from Deter Tech. The devices look suspiciously like the brutal Dalek aliens from Doctor Who. They are supposed to be effective in combating burglaries at night. 
These devices are equipped with cameras that cover 360 degrees, making them incredibly effective in detecting and preventing theft. According to the developers, they can prevent up to 80% of thefts.
The robots are positioned at night outside shops and warn off intruders with an "angry Northern Irish accent". They also automatically send out alerts to the authorities.
These robots are expected to be more efficient than human guards, as they will not fall asleep at their post as long as they have a charge. However, with rental costs of £100,000 a month, implementing them could prove costly.
The PID360 security robot has the same yellow and blue chequered markings as the UK police.
"We do use this security device in some stores outside of business hours when it is necessary, for example to prevent burglary and damage to our property," a Tesco spokesman confirmed. "The device is not on the sales floor during business hours."
A still from the TV series "Doctor Who"
Until now, PID360 robots have mainly been used to protect construction sites from illegal entry. However, Tesco management, faced with the problem of night security, decided to also implement this solution - especially in smaller Tesco Express stores, where there are usually no security personnel at night.
The PID360 security robot is also known to be used in a number of 'problem' locations in Manchester, Bristol and Newcastle.
When the device detects an intruder, it flashes a 114 decibel Star Wars-style warning siren. It then says in an 'angry' Northern Irish accent: 'Attention, this is security, your presence has been detected, the owner and police have been informed.'
In less than a minute, a message including an image of the intruder is sent to a central control room staffed by former police and military personnel, who decide whether to call in local security, the police, or a mobile response team to resolve the issue.
According to Deter Tech, the PID360 prevents more than 80 percent of intrusions and can be deployed in remote locations without the need for power.
“The PID360 is a powerful tool to protect your business from intruders,” says Deter Tech. “With its striking design, audible alerts, and LED lighting, it provides reliable protection. The device accurately records every activation, and our team quickly review the footage and take appropriate action if unauthorised presence is detected."
Tesco staff are said to have ridiculed the device on the company's internal blog, with one calling it "rather sinister" and another saying: "My favourite thing about them is the Northern Irish accent. I never thought our accent could be unsettling, but it does seem to do that to some people."
