Why It Matters to Give Robots a Name

We all remember the headlines when HitchBOT was “murdered” in Philadelphia. News outlets ran with dramatic titles like “HitchBOT Beheaded in Philly” and “Robot Destroyed in Philly.” At first, it almost felt like satire, how could a robot be “murdered”? But then the images started circulating: HitchBOT, once smiling and cheerful in photos from his travels across the Netherlands, Germany, and Canada, now left stripped, dismembered, and decapitated on a Philadelphia street.

The story hit harder than many expected. After all, HitchBOT was just a collection of wires, foam, and plastic, but people felt genuine sympathy for him. Why? Because it had a name, a face, and a story. HitchBOT had successfully hitchhiked across three countries and was making his way across the United States from west to east before meeting his abrupt end. Despite being “just a robot,” the emotional appeal was real. We weren’t just watching technology get destroyed, we were watching the end of a little robot’s adventure.

HitchBOT rode along with two boys who were heading to summer camp. This was taken a week before HitchBOT was vandalized. Image property of NPR.

What Is Human-Robot Interaction?

HitchBOT’s story highlights the heart of an important question: What is human-robot interaction? At its core, it’s the study and practice of how humans and robots work together. It’s not just about programming or mechanics, it’s about connection, trust, and design.

When robots are given names, personalities, or even a simple design that suggests friendliness, people are more likely to respond positively. A robot named “HitchBOT” feels approachable and almost childlike, while “Model XR-500” feels distant. This simple difference shows why human-robot interaction matters: people are more willing to accept, trust, and collaborate with robots when they feel like more than just machines.

The Psychology of Human and Robot Interaction

Humans are hardwired to form emotional connections. We often project feelings onto objects, naming cars, talking to pets, or even thanking Alexa or Siri after they respond. This process, called anthropomorphism, explains why people cheered HitchBOT’s successes and mourned the robot destroyed in Philly.

Robots that are approachable, named, and designed with personality tap into this natural human tendency. By creating a sense of familiarity, they encourage smoother human and robot interaction.

(Images courtesy of hitchBOT)

Robots as Teammates, Not Tools

In workplaces today, human-robot interaction goes far beyond experiments like HitchBOT. Industrial robots and collaborative robots (“cobots”) are becoming teammates on factory floors, in warehouses, and even in healthcare. Naming and humanizing them can help employees feel more comfortable adopting the technology.

For example, introducing a new piece of technology as “Sam” instead of “Unit XR-500” makes it feel less like a threat and more like an extra set of hands. Even highly technical machines like robotic arms can feel approachable when framed as supportive teammates rather than replacements.

This mindset is key for companies adopting automation. When employees trust the technology, they collaborate more effectively with it, resulting in safer, more productive, and more positive environments.

Designing Robots for Empathy

Beyond names, thoughtful design matters. Small details like voices, lights, or even simple “faces” on screens can transform how people respond to robots. HitchBOT couldn’t walk or lift heavy objects, but it could answer basic questions and make small talk. His smile and quirky name were enough to win the hearts of many. That emotional connection was its greatest strength.

Modern robotics companies recognize this. By building robots with human centered design, they’re not just creating machines, they’re creating teammates that people can rely on, trust, and even root for.

A Positive Future for Human-Robot Interaction

While HitchBOT’s journey ended sadly, it left behind a powerful lesson: when people feel connected to robots, they respond with empathy. Human-robot interaction isn’t just about efficiency or productivity, it’s about building trust and shaping positive relationships between people and technology.

At the end of the day, people want robots they can trust, connect with, and welcome into their daily lives. Sometimes, all it takes to turn a robot from “just a machine” into a valued partner is something as simple as giving it a name.

To read more about people working alongside robots click here.