From blockbuster movies to the realm of reality, the development of humanoid robots isn’t just a side effect of sci-fi-inspired dreams. It’s happening, and it’s happening fast. The world is totally buzzing about them, and yet, we can’t help but ask: why the hell are we building humanoids? After all, they’re notoriously challenging to balance, they cost a bomb to construct, and let’s face it, wheel-based robots are way more efficient. Yet big names like Figure and Agility are raking in billions from investors. So, what’s the deal here, folks?
The answer lies in three simple Ps: psychology, politics, and profit. We, as humans, naturally trust anything that looks like us. A humanoid robot with a face and arms feels comforting, familiar and even safe. The political landscape contributes to this as well. With China laying down national targets for humanoid mass production, there’s no way the US is going to sit back and watch. It’s a new kind of arms race, one where silicon outpaces steel.
Then, there’s the big P – profit. With Amazon’s leaked plans suggesting a possible replacement of 600,000 jobs with robots, it’s clear there’s money to be made. And it’s not small change we’re talking about here. Morgan Stanley is predicting a whopping $5 trillion humanoid economy by 2050. The tech may not be ready yet, but the hype is already real and palpable. So, it’s not just about creating better robots, but also about wielding power, maintaining control and setting the rules for a future where machines can do everything we can.
Original content by evolving.ai – View original