Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Boston Dynamics, an American engineering and robotics company, has revealed the latest iteration of its humanoid Atlas robot, marking a significant advancement in robotic technology.
The new Atlas robot represents a transition from hydraulic to electric power, designed for commercial applications with enhanced strength and flexibility. This development follows the retirement of the previous hydraulic model.
Boston Dynamics aims to explore real-world applications for the new Atlas robot, collaborating with Hyundai, with whom it merged in 2021, to test and iterate its capabilities over the coming years.
The unveiling of the electric Atlas robot offers a glimpse into the future of humanoid robotics, promising a broader range of motion and versatility for various industries and environments.
A video shared by Boston Dynamics showcasing the new robot garnered mixed reactions on social media, with some users expressing fascination at its capabilities while others found its movements unsettling.
While some viewers praised the robot's advanced functionality, others likened its movements to those of a science fiction horror creature, sparking discussions about its design and implications.
Commentary on social media highlighted the balance between creating a humanoid appearance for the robot while avoiding associations with human limitations or unsettling resemblances to fictional characters like those in "Terminator." One user said, "I love how it's a humanoid but isn't restricted by human limitations." Another user said, "Might not be a person in a suit but it still looks creepy."
Boston Dynamics continues to push the boundaries of robotics technology, eliciting diverse reactions from the public regarding the implications and aesthetics of humanoid robots like the Atlas.