The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 showcased an array of robots this year, but Jesse Orrell, host for CNET, noted that no singular robot could be deemed "the best". Orrell recounted his experiences at the event, highlighting the various designs and functionalities displayed by participating companies.
Among the standout exhibits was the Unitree G1, the only humanoid robot he had the opportunity to control. The user-friendly interface of the controller drew comparisons to the familiar experience of handling a video game controller, providing a uniquely engaging experience akin to "test driving a really cool car that I'll probably never be able to afford". Orrell pointed out that the marketing of autonomy by other robots, such as those by Aptronics and Agility Robotics' Digit, was showcased through pre-programmed demonstrations in a controlled environment. He remarked that this focus on autonomy, though appealing to businesses for automation purposes, distanced the technology from potential consumers, likening it to observing a work of art or "an animal in a zoo".
A critical observation made was the comparison to self-driving vehicles. Orrell expressed personal hesitations about completely automated systems, stating, "there are some folks, myself included, who still have some reservations about autonomous driving," underscoring a desire for human intervention in complex scenarios, particularly when operating sophisticated technology such as robots.
Orrell discussed a burgeoning category of robots termed "social robots", designed to appeal to human emotions and foster interaction. Realbotics presented a concept focused on human likeness, complete with skin-like coverings and facial motors to facilitate expression. Orrell was intrigued by Realbotics' innovative use of RFID tags embedded within the silicone features of the robots. This functionality enables a robot to recognise different facial coverings, allowing it to adjust its movements and artificial intelligence personality accordingly, drawing parallels between these robots and the customisation options afforded by modern smartphones and computers.
Other companies at CES appeared to deliberately avoid the unsettling "uncanny valley" effect typically associated with lifelike robotics. Instead, they opted for designs that exuded charm, employing aesthetics that were either cute, sassy, or cartoonish.
In conclusion, it is evident that the humanoid robotics field is encountering significant growth and remains in a phase of maturation. With applications spanning from theme parks to warehouses and homes, the competition for the top position in the industry is still evolving, leaving the title of "best robot" open for future contests and developments.
Source: Noah Wire Services