For decades, robots were bolted to the floor. Now, companies like Tesla (Optimus), Figure AI, and Agility Robotics are putting them on two legs. This isn't just about cool mechanics; it's about "General Purpose" automation.
Why Humanoid?
Our entire world—stairs, door handles, tools, shelves—is designed for the human form factor. Instead of redesigning the warehouse for the robot, we are redesigning the robot for the warehouse.
The Foundation Models
The breakthrough driving this is "Embodied AI." Just as ChatGPT learned language from the internet, these robots are learning physics and movement from massive datasets. They aren't programmed step-by-step; they are trained end-to-end.
What's Next?
We will soon see these robots working alongside humans in logistics hubs, performing the dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks that we struggle to hire for.
About the Author
Nay Linn Aung is a Senior Technical Product Owner specializing in the convergence of OT and IT.