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4w ago

Melania Trump Closes Global Children’s Tech Summit With Humanoid Robot’s White House Debut

The showcase signals a push to coordinate public‑private efforts on AI in classrooms without immediate binding commitments.

During a surreal publicity stunt, First Lady Melania Trump walked the White House's red carpet next to a black-and-white humanoid robot.
First lady Melania Trump arrives, accompanied by a robot, to attend the "Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit," with other first spouses, at the White House, Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
U.S. first lady Melania Trump walks next to a humanoid robot as she hosts a roundtable event on the second day of the inaugural Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 25, 2026. REUTERS/Kylie Cooper TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
First lady Melania Trump speaks during a "Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit," at the State Department, Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Overview

  • Melania Trump, who entered the East Room on Wednesday with a U.S.-built humanoid called Figure 03, watched as it greeted delegates in multiple languages before leaving the room.
  • The two-day Fostering the Future Together summit convened representatives from 45 nations and 28 technology companies to discuss AI in classrooms, digital skills, online safety, and education technology tools.
  • Organizers urged participants to form regional networks, partner with industry, expand access to technology, and explore legislation, though no detailed global agreements were announced.
  • Figure 03 was developed by Sunnyvale-based startup Figure AI and was introduced in October 2025, with the company’s CEO noting pride in what he called the first humanoid robot appearance at the White House.
  • Video of the entrance drew wide online attention, with some outlets spotlighting policy aims for AI literacy and child safety while others focused on viral jokes and public unease over the robot’s presence.