It’s that time of the year again when the spirit of Christmas mingles with the thrill of scientific exploration. The Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, a cornerstone of British festive tradition since their first broadcast in 1936, are set to make history this year. In an unprecedented move, the lectures will feature Ai-Da Robot, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist, marking a significant milestone in the intersection of art and artificial intelligence.

This year’s lectures, titled “The Truth About AI,” are poised to demystify the often complex and misunderstood world of artificial intelligence. Joining Mike Wooldridge, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Oxford University, Ai-Da Robot will not only contribute to the conversation but also demonstrate her unique artistic abilities. The lectures promise a rare glimpse into how groundbreaking AI technology operates, with Ai-Da set to reveal a painting of Professor Wooldridge at the lecture’s conclusion.

Ai-Da’s participation is not just a novelty; it’s a testament to the evolving capabilities of AI in creative fields. Her presence continues the legacy of esteemed scientists like Sir David Attenborough and Richard Dawkins, who have graced the Christmas Lectures in the past. However, Ai-Da brings a new dimension, blending the lines between human creativity and machine intelligence.

The 2023 Christmas Lectures will be broadcast on the BBC, offering viewers a chance to partake in this extraordinary blend of science, art, and festive cheer. Ai-Da’s role in these lectures is not just as a performer but as an educator, aiming to inspire the next generation at the intersection of technology and art.

The inclusion of Ai-Da Robot in the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures is more than just a technological showcase; it’s a meaningful exploration of AI’s role in our society and its potential to influence various aspects of our lives, from art to more technical realms. It’s a reminder that the future of AI is not just about algorithms and data, but also about creativity, empathy, and understanding.

This year the lectures are being live-streamed at a variety of locations around the UK

You can watch the Christmas lectures in the UK on BBC4 at 8pm on 26th, 27th and 28th December 2023. It will also be available on BBC iPlayer.