Summary of Key Points
While visiting the World Robot Conference, I noticed an interesting contrast: Humanoid robots—those that look like humans with heads, arms, and legs—were the biggest attractions, attracting all the attention. However, it might be the robots that don’t look like humans at all that will actually start making money first, such as the robotic arms in factories, the sorting robots in logistics warehouses, and the delivery robots in restaurants. In other words, the “attractive” (humanoid) robots aren’t as useful yet, while the “useful” (non-humanoid) robots have already begun to generate revenue.
Detailed Analysis
1. Why are humanoid robots such a big deal? — They’re a visually appealing symbol of future technology
Humanoid robots have become the focus of the conference because they tap into people’s imagination of future technology. Think about it: The robots in movies like “Terminator” and “Robot Revolution” are humanoid, appearing intelligent and warm, which naturally draws a huge crowd. Tech companies also use them as a showcase of their capabilities, demonstrating how their robots can walk, dance, and communicate, making them seem impressive. The media is eager to cover these developments, which adds to the excitement. However, for now, most humanoid robots are still in the demonstration phase and are far from being able to solve real-world problems.
2. Why do non-humanoid robots make money first? — Practicality is key
The robots that don’t look like humans, such as those in factories and logistics, have a clear advantage in terms of practicality. For example:
- Robotic arms in factories: They can work 24/7, assembling parts with high precision, efficiently and without getting tired, which is very appealing to factory owners.
- Logistics sorting robots: They move around warehouses, sorting packages by address, significantly reducing costs for delivery companies.
- Restaurant delivery robots: They don’t require wages or rest, and they can deliver food and drinks reliably, especially during peak hours, helping to relieve the workload on servers. Many restaurants are already using them.
These robots don’t need to resemble humans; they just need to perform their tasks well, which allows them to quickly find customers and generate revenue.
3. The reason for the contrast: The gap in technical difficulty and cost
Humanoid robots are more difficult to develop. Creating robots that can walk (maintain balance), speak naturally, and handle complex environments (avoid obstacles) requires overcoming many technical challenges, and the cost is extremely high—a humanoid robot can cost hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Non-humanoid robots, on the other hand, are relatively cheaper and more mature, with quick returns on investment. It’s not that humanoid robots are inferior; they just haven’t reached the point where they are both useful and affordable.
4. Typical scenarios where non-humanoid robots are making money: They’re already part of our daily lives
These “non-humanoid” robots have quietly entered our lives in various areas:
- Industrial sectors: Welding robots in car factories and assembly robots in electronics factories are common in large manufacturing plants.
- Logistics: Sorting robots in warehouses of companies like JD.com and SF Express deliver packages to the right locations.
- Service industries: Disinfection robots in hospitals, shopping mall guides (that answer customer questions), and room service robots (that deliver towels and toothbrushes).
- Agriculture: Automatic harvesting robots (for strawberries and tomatoes) and pesticide spraying robots (for farms).
These services are in high demand, and companies are willing to pay for them, which is why non-humanoid robots are making money first.
5. The future: Will humanoid robots catch up?
Although non-humanoid robots are currently more profitable, humanoid robots have great potential. For instance, a robot that can help with cooking or caring for the elderly at home might be more suitable, as they can handle tasks like picking up objects and operating household appliances. However, this will take time—technologies need to mature, and costs need to decrease before humanoid robots become widely available. For now, non-humanoid robots are the “current money-makers,” while humanoid robots represent the “potential of the future.” Each type of robot has its own market, and they don’t compete with each other.
In conclusion
The logic behind robots making money is simple: First, solve the problem of whether they are useful or not; then consider whether they are attractive. Robots that can immediately help with tasks and save money will capture the market. Humanoid robots will need a few more years to truly become profitable.