Humanoid Robots Entering Public Spaces

Recent developments indicate a significant increase in the deployment of humanoid robots in public spaces, performing tasks ranging from customer service to complex physical activities. Below is a summary of notable instances:

1. AI Robots in Public Spaces

AI-powered robots are increasingly operating in environments such as retail stores, museums, and kitchens, undertaking roles like cleaning, conversing, and cooking. Enhanced by generative AI, these robots show promise but face challenges in dexterity and navigation. Venture capital investment in robotics has risen to $12.8 billion in 2024, reflecting growing interest in this sector. Despite advancements, robots often struggle with tasks requiring intuitive understanding and adaptability. Companies like Brain Corp and ABB are working to improve robots' dexterity and obstacle navigation through AI training. Conversational skills are also being enhanced to improve human-robot interactions in sectors like hospitality. The anticipated robot boom in 2025 is expected to further integrate AI robots into both public and industrial sectors.

The Wall Street Journal

2. China's PM01 Humanoid Robot

China has introduced a humanoid robot named PM01, notable for its advanced acrobatic capabilities and an "owl-like" waist that can rotate 320 degrees. Developed by EngineAI, PM01 mimics human movement with a natural gait and has a top speed of 4.5 mph. Standing at 4.5 feet tall and weighing 40 kg, it is more flexible, faster, and shorter than prior models. Powered by a high-capacity battery lasting up to two hours, PM01 is targeted at businesses, researchers, and developers, with availability expected next year at around £9,500. EngineAI aims to broaden the use of intelligent robots in daily life, enhancing human-robot interaction.

The Scottish Sun

3. Delivery Robots in the UK

Since 2018, Starship robots have been autonomously delivering groceries in various UK cities such as Milton Keynes and Leeds. Created by Skype co-founder Ahti Heinla, these four-wheeled robots have made automated deliveries a routine part of daily life, with minimal public backlash or significant vandalism. Starship Technologies has completed over seven million deliveries globally, demonstrating a cost-effective solution compared to traditional delivery methods. Despite minor incidents involving property damage and low-speed collisions, user responses have been predominantly positive. Heinla predicts an increase in the number of robots due to their efficiency and low cost and advocates for clearer national regulations for robot operations in the UK.

The Times

4. GoMate Humanoid Robot in Manufacturing

GoMate, a humanoid robot with AI and remote control capabilities, is set to begin building cars, with production targeted for 2026. Created by Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. (GAC), GoMate can balance on either two or four wheels, making it highly flexible with 38 degrees of freedom. This enables it to handle complex tasks, navigate obstacles, and adapt to varied environments. At its unveiling in Shanghai, GoMate showcased its ability to carry loads, climb stairs, and operate both indoors and outdoors with precise movements. Powered by GAC's all-solid-state battery with a six-hour runtime, it can also be controlled through VR headsets. Limited production is expected to start in 2026, aiming for large-scale mass production. Future applications may include education, healthcare, and security.

The Sun

5. Tesla's Optimus Humanoid Robot

During a Tesla event in California, Elon Musk unveiled the latest Optimus robots, autonomous humanoid robots designed to perform various tasks. Musk anticipates that Optimus robots will eventually cost between $20,000 to $30,000, making them accessible to the general public.

New York Post

These developments highlight the rapid integration of humanoid robots into public spaces, with applications spanning from service industries to manufacturing. While technological advancements have enabled these deployments, challenges remain in ensuring safety, adaptability, and public acceptance.