Shenzhen Metro has launched a groundbreaking pilot program deploying AI-powered robot guide dogs, named "Xiaosuan," to assist blind and low-vision passengers in navigating complex metro stations. The trial, which began on December 13 at Huangmugang Transportation Hub, marks a significant step toward inclusive urban mobility in Asia.
Equipped with advanced technologies like multi-modal 3D-voxel neural networks and large visual language models, Xiaosuan responds to voice commands to perform tasks such as route planning, obstacle avoidance, and tactile paving tracking. The robots currently operate near accessible elevators at Exits 13 and 14, with staff supervision during the initial phase to ensure safety.
If the trial proves successful, Shenzhen Metro plans to expand the service to more stations in 2026, potentially transforming accessibility standards across China\u2019s public transportation networks.
