OpenAI´s Humanoids doing Great

Norwegian humanoid robot manufacturer 1X states that the video is devoid of teleoperation, computer-generated imagery, editing, speed alterations, or pre-planned movements. Instead, it is entirely guided by neural networks, operating autonomously at normal speed.

This is the company that OpenAI supported with its chips last year by investing $25 million in a Series A funding round. Another $100 million in a Series B round highlighted how influential OpenAI’s support is, showing the growing excitement about humanoid robots that can do many different tasks. This idea used to feel like it belonged in the distant future, but it’s exploded with interest in the last two years.

The Humanoid Apearence

1X’s humanoid robots seem quite basic compared to what companies like Tesla, Figure, Sanctuary, or Agility are developing. For instance, the Eve humanoid doesn’t even have feet or hands that can do delicate tasks. Instead, it moves around on wheels, balancing on a small wheel at the back, and its hands are simple claws. It looks more suited for a race on a sled, with a small LED smiley face that gives it a cute but toy-like appearance, almost like it might start asking for food and cuddles like a Tamagotchi.

1X is working on a bipedal robot called Neo, which has hands that look more flexible and detailed. But maybe these features aren’t crucial in these early days of general-purpose robots. Most of the tasks robots will do initially seem to be simple, like “pick that thing up and move it over there,” which doesn’t require highly dexterous fingers like those needed for playing the piano. These robots will mainly be used in warehouses and factories with flat, concrete floors, where they won’t need to climb stairs or step over obstacles.

Read the Original Article: NewAtlas

Read more: Humanoid Figure Achieves Autonomous Task Learning and Performance