Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, and one of its most fascinating fields is the development of humanoid robots. These robots, which mimic human characteristics and behaviors, are revolutionizing industries and raising important ethical and social issues.
In today’s content, I would like to explore the evolution of this technology and its future implications, taking as a reference the ideas shared by Dr. Omar Hatamleh in a recent interview with Marc Vidal.
Who is Omar Hatamleh
Omar Hatamleh is a prominent engineer and leader in artificial intelligence, currently serving as Chief Advisor for Artificial Intelligence and Innovation at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. With over 28 years of experience at the space agency, Hatamleh has held several key roles, including Director of Innovation and Engineering and Executive Director of the Space Studies Program at International Space University.
He is also oneof the 25 most influential Spaniards in Science and Technology.
Evolution of Humanoid Robots: From Early Steps to Futurization
Humanoid robots have evolved rapidly over the past few decades. Looking back just five years, we see that the advances have been significant, from robots that could barely walk to today’s models that interact with humans almost naturally.
This progress is not linear but exponential. Each discovery accelerates development, and the convergence with other technologies, such as biotechnology and organoid intelligence, transforms what we can expect from these machines.
"In about 50 years, we could face robots almost indistinguishable from humans."
Organoid Intelligence: The Future of Biological Robots?
One of the most innovative points Dr. Hatamleh mentions is the introduction of organoid intelligence. What exactly does this mean? It is the integration of stem cells and neurons into robots, allowing them to replicate biological movements and functions. In other words, not only are we talking about machines that move like humans, but they will also be able to think and react more like a human brain.
Organoid intelligence could bring us to a point where robots are not only efficient at mechanical tasks, but also have the ability to learn and adapt in real time, simulating human brain processes. Imagine a robot that can adjust its strength to lift a delicate object without breaking it or that can interpret facial expressions to respond emotionally appropriately. This technology could revolutionize the world of personal assistance, medicine and even education.
Sound familiar? If this is true, we would not be so far away from a utopian future like the one Blade Runner showed us…
Leading Manufacturers: Who's Leading the Way
Several technology companies stand out in the race to develop advanced humanoid robots.
Here are some of them:
- Boston Dynamics, known for its Atlas robot, has revolutionized the industry with models capable of complex movements and overcoming human physical limits.
- Tesla, with its Optimus robot, has focused on improving efficiency and precision in object manipulation, making it lighter and more adaptable. Remember that you have fantastic content where you can see them in action at the recent We Robot event.
- Sanctuary AI has introduced H1, a robot with advanced sensors and record-breaking speed designed for industrial and research applications.
- Oversonic in Italy has developed RoBee, a robot that can move autonomously and perform tasks in industrial environments. These companies are innovating in technology and setting the pace for progress in the humanoid robot industry.
- Unitree Robotics (China): Its H1 robot competes in dexterity with Boston Dynamics.
- Xiaomi (China). Launched the humanoid robot CyberOne
- UBTECH (China) Develops Walker S robot for use in automotive factories
- Agility Robotics: Develops Digit bipedal robot, designed for logistics tasks…. Amazon has integrated Digit into its warehouses
- Apptronik: Its humanoid robot Apollo is designed for demanding physical tasks1. Apollo is 170 cm tall, weighs 72 kg, and can carry up to 25 kg. It has partnered with Mercedes-Benz to use Apollo in its factories.
- Sanctuary AI (Canada). Its Phoenix robot measures 170 cm and weighs 70 kg1. It stands out for the advanced mobility of its fingers.
- Figure. Desarrolla robots para uso en logística. Movido por la IA de OpenAI
Future Applications and Cloning: Beyond Science Fiction
The possibility of cloning human beings in the form of humanoid robots opens up a fascinating debate. According to Dr. Hatamleh, we could see robots that mimic the appearance, voice and even the personality of loved ones, such as a grandfather or grandmother, to accompany elderly people and provide them with an experience almost identical to being with their loved ones. This raises the possibility of robots not just being tools but becoming emotional companions.
Likewise, recreating historical figures such as Albert Einstein to teach in schools could revolutionize education, offering interactive and personalized classes. An “Einstein” who explains the theory of relativity, answers questions and adapts his lessons according to the student’s needs would make learning much more dynamic and effective.
Ethical Challenges: The Dark Side of "Humanoidness
With all this potential, a big question arises: what happens when humanoid robots must make ethical decisions? Dr. Hatamleh mentions that programming these robots to act in complex situations, such as car accidents or emergencies in space, is a monumental challenge. The decisions a robot makes at such times could have serious consequences and must be aligned not only with ethical principles, but also with local laws and cultures.
For example, a robot in Europe might have to prioritize the life of a pedestrian at an intersection, while in another country, the rules might be different. This raises a dilemma about standardizing these behaviors without falling into a uniform approach that ignores cultural variations. It is a challenge that goes beyond programming and forces us to rethink the implications of creating mechanical beings that could, in theory, be responsible for life-and-death decisions.
The future of humanoid robots is exciting and, at the same time, unsettling. With the evolution of organoid intelligence and the possibility of cloning humans in the form of robots, we are approaching a new era in which the line between human and artificial becomes increasingly blurred. This brings with it impressive opportunities but also ethical and societal challenges that must be approached with caution.
As Dr. Omar Hatamleh rightly mentions, the future of humanoid robots is not just about what they can do but how we integrate these technologies into our society safely and responsibly. The evolution of this technology forces us all to think about the implications and debate what kind of relationship we want to build with these new artificial “lives.”
And what do you think about this? What applications of humanoid robots do you find most promising or useful? Where do you see the greatest ethical challenges? Do you think robots should make complex decisions such as in a car accident or in emergency situations? What future do you expect for humanoid robots? Would you like to see them integrated into everyday life, or do you think there should be certain limits to their development?
I want to know your point of view! If you liked the article or have any ideas for future topics, let me know in the comments!
Have a good week!
