Humanoid robots are a bad idea

Computerworld August 20, 2024
Mike Elgan

Multiple companies are now using robots that walk and talk like human beings. What could go wrong?

In case you hadn’t noticed, humanoid robots have joined the workforce.

An evergreen staple of science fiction, autonomous AI-driven machines with feet, legs that bend at the knee, torsos, arms with hands and fingers, all topped with a head are now being deployed in real workplaces.

Specifically:

• Amazon is piloting the use of Agility Robotics’ humanoid robot, Digit, in logistics operations — mainly for picking up empty bins and returning them to where they can be filled again with merchandise.

• Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with Apptronik to explore the use of the Apollo humanoid robot in manufacturing. (The...

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