Last night was the second performance of Boozbot, during the bi-monthly Eyebeam MIXER. Here’s what I find interesting:

Human bartenders have a set sequenced of commands they follow through in their interaction with me, that ensure I get the drink I want, and they get their money (and tip.) I too have a set sequence, or ritual, that I engage in when I want a drink. Since this one is a little more obscure, I’ll break it down:

  • Find unoccupied section of the bar
  • Position body to face bar, even leaning on bar, to convey my full attention is directed to the bartender
  • Attempt eye contact with bartender, but keep face relaxed, hopefully denoting that I want their attention, but it is not urgent, and I am a patient person that deserves an extra large shot
  • Upon receiving eye contact smile or nod head, dependent upon perceived kindness/attractiveness to bartender
  • When bartender is within hearing range, order my drinks. If environment is loud, use hand gestures to emphasize.
  • Upon receipt of drinks, pay requested amount.
  • Leave $1 per drink. If there are more than 5 drinks, leave $5.

I have been going to bars on average twice a week for over 10 years. That’s over a thousands times all over the world, that I’ve done nearly the same ritual. The novelty of a robotic bartender distances people from their normal ritual, making them unsure of how they are supposed to interact with it. As it turns out, most people are SUPER RUDE to Boozbot. They believe it is just a machine, that they can command to give them their drink. It is a surprise when Boozbot refuses, or makes fun of them - actions which we attribute to consciousness. It is at this point that the interaction between Boozbotand the customer becomes more interesting.

I am not exactly sure where I will be moving forward with Boozbot, but it is definitely in this direction. One of my favorite responses from people was: “When I found out that there was a human operating him (Boozbot), I felt bad, cause I was pretty rude … but also, cause it made me realize that that’s how I treat normal bartenders as well.”

Boozbot’s next appearance is at Eyebeam, Saturday June 21st for the open studios.