Iris interacting with creator Aref Zahed

Meet Iris, American University’s first AI-powered robot—blending cutting-edge artificial intelligence with natural human interaction.

Created by Department of Computer Science Professorial Lecturer Aref Zahed, Iris is Zahed’s third AI project, following his earlier launch of a six-legged "Spidey” robot and an AI-powered teaching assistant named Sarah. Building on these successes, Zahed takes AI interaction to the next level with Iris’s human-like engagement and enhanced technology.

Iris remembers names, turns to face whoever’s speaking, speaks nine languages, answers complex questions, summarizes classes, prepares documents, and even writes and explains code. Whether she’s recognizing a familiar face, talking to students, or displaying responses wirelessly on nearby screens, Iris is redefining human-AI interaction on campus.

Beyond a Search Engine: Iris in Action

Iris harnesses the power of ChatGPT alongside Google’s search engine. It’s a powerful combination—allowing her to analyze complex topics, generate precise answers, and adapt her responses based on context.

In a recent demonstration, Zahed asked her to implement Python code, find photos of Mars, and briefly describe the concept of iron deficiency. Then, he took it a step further—asking Iris to explain “Einstein-Rosen bridges” in German. Iris interpreted each request logically, tailored her responses, and displayed them on a nearby screen.

Ask Iris Anything—From Quantum Physics to March Madness

But Iris isn’t just a high-powered research tool—she’s also engaging, intuitive, and fun.  

Need to know the weather, the history of March Madness, or when DC’s cherry blossoms will peak? Ask Iris—she listens, turns toward the speaker, and processes sound much like a human.

“Iris is designed to interact with people in a way that feels natural,” Zahed says. “She can use vision and face-recognition technology to identify people who have introduced themselves, recognize them by name, and recall past interactions. She analyzes surroundings using image processing and sound analysis, making her interactions even more lifelike.”

A Practical AI Assistant for Learning and Productivity

Iris is also designed to enhance learning and productivity. “If I’m teaching a class, I can ask Iris to generate a summary,” Zahed explains. “She can compile information, put it together into structured documents, and make it instantly available for students who missed a session. She can also translate my lessons into different languages—one student recently asked for Chinese translations, and Iris prepared them.”

Iris can write letters and grant proposals, answer research questions, and code in multiple programming languages, including C, C#, Java, and Python.

Iris is energy-efficient—she’s fully solar-powered, making her a sustainable AI innovation. Beyond that, she can help manage classroom environments, using image and sound analysis to adjust lighting, control audio-visual devices, and request temperature changes based on occupancy. “She can even send messages to police or security in case of emergencies,” Zahed adds.

The Future of Iris

While Iris is already an impressive feat of AI engineering, Zahed envisions even greater capabilities.

“The next step is optimization and mechanics,” he says. “Right now, Iris can move her neck towards sound, but I’m working on giving her hands and feet to enhance her mobility and interaction.”

Iris creator, Professor Aref Zahed

As AI-powered humanoid robots continue to evolve, Zahed believes they will transform industries by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and reshaping traditional labor structures.

“Just as past technological revolutions reshaped society, AI-powered robots will create new economic opportunities while challenging traditional labor models,” he says. “With careful integration, these innovations can drive unprecedented progress, making work more optional and prosperity more accessible.”

Iris may be AU’s first AI robot, but she represents just the beginning of an exciting new frontier in human-AI collaboration at American University. “The possibilities for AI in education are expanding, and I'm excited to continue pushing the boundaries,” says Zahed.