factor

Robotics & AI

Modex Continues to Question Reliability of Humanoid Robots

It’s not a flat-out refutation of the form factor, so much as an acknowledgement that — in spite of investor enthusiasm — it’s not the ideal tool for every job. This week’s Modex supply chain show inAtlanta told its own story — one populated by very few humanoids. A number of the players I spoke with continued to express skepticism around the widespread adoption of humanoid robots in the workplace. I heard very few outright rejections of the humanoid form factor. These instances, which now require human intervention, could be the ideal scenario for humanoids, whether operating autonomously or teleoperated, as in the case of Reflex, the other humanoid robotics firm present at Modex.

Max Chen
March 14, 2024

Robotics & AI

“Championing the Potential of Universal Humanoid Robots: Insights from Bill Gates”

Of late, one of the most intense ones centers around humanoid robots. Humanoid robots can, however, now claim a big tech name among their ranks. Bill Gates this week issued a list of “cutting-edge robotics startups and labs that I’m excited about.” Among the names are three companies focused on developing humanoids. An endorsement like this might not move the needle too far in the humanoid direction, and Gates is very much not a roboticist. It is, however, enlightening to see the form factor continue to gain more mainstream legitimacy by the day.

Max Chen
January 25, 2024

Robotics & AI

“Bill Gates: A Fervent Supporter of Multi-Purpose Humanoid Robots”

Of late, one of the most intense ones centers around humanoid robots. Humanoid robots can, however, now claim a big tech name among their ranks. Bill Gates this week issued a list of “cutting-edge robotics startups and labs that I’m excited about.” Among the names are three companies focused on developing humanoids. An endorsement like this might not move the needle too far in the humanoid direction, and Gates is very much not a roboticist. It is, however, enlightening to see the form factor continue to gain more mainstream legitimacy by the day.

Dylan Williams
January 25, 2024
1 Comment

CES

Galaxy Ring: Samsung’s Latest Challenge to Oura

It took Oura (pictured above) to show the world that the ring is a viable health tracking form factor. The company concluded today’s Galaxy S24 Unpacked event by announcing the Samsung Galaxy Ring. Meet the Galaxy Ring, with AI technology is empowering us to stay connected, unleash our creativity and build healthier habits all in more meaningful ways. We know it’s called the Galaxy Ring. Of course, while company, the form factor does have its feature limitations owing to a small size.