Boston Dynamics reveals its most astonishing humanoid robot so far - and I can't stop watching it
Boston Dynamics has become known for its impressive robot videos, particularly featuring their Atlas robot, which is powered by hydraulics. However, they have now taken things to another level with their new, all-electric and completely redesigned Atlas robot. The All New Atlas is Boston Dynamic's first humanoid robot that is fully electric. According to the robotics firm, this new version is stronger and more agile than its predecessors. What caught my attention in the video is the robot's remarkably human-like body. Unlike the hydraulics-based Atlas, which had a somewhat awkward appearance resembling a mix of a linebacker and scaffolding, the new Atlas stands out with a design similar to Tesla's Optimus and Figure AI's Figure 01. This puts the renowned robotics company back at the forefront of the growing humanoid robotics race. Yet, what truly amazes me is not just the robot's appearance, but how it moves. The video begins with the new Atlas lying motionless on the floor, with its legs raised and rolled back in an incredibly contorted position. It then smoothly rises up, facing away from the camera, with its chest, head, and legs all turned in the opposite direction. First, the head, featuring a circular glass panel for a face, spins around, followed by each leg rotating at the hip to face the camera, as Atlas effortlessly walks forward. Finally, the torso spins around beneath the head until the entire New Atlas is facing the camera. As Boston Dynamics highlights, "Atlas may resemble a human form factor, but we are equipping the robot to move in the most efficient way possible to complete a task, rather than being constrained by a human range of motion. Atlas will move in ways that exceed human capabilities." Providing Atlas with superhuman capabilities, such as increased strength and movement beyond human limitations, is all about efficiency. Unlike humans, robots are not limited by their physiology. While we often joke about people needing to be aware of their surroundings by "keeping their heads on a swivel," robots can literally do this. Boston Dynamics continues to focus on bipedal robots because it believes this form factor is useful for building robots that can operate effectively in a world designed for people. However, it remains unclear if their popular SPOT robot, which resembles a dog, will undergo a similar shift to all-electric power alongside hydraulics. Although the new Atlas has a more human-like appearance, it is still a long way from being commercially or readily available to consumers. According to Boston Dynamics, the robot's initial testing phase will take place with its investor, Hyundai. "In the months and years ahead, we're excited to show what the world's most dynamic humanoid robot can really do - in the lab, in the factory, and in our lives," the company stated in a release. On the technical side, the New Atlas will be powered by Boston Dynamics' latest artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies. When deploying robots in factories, the company ensures that the programming is well acquainted with the factory's environment, allowing the robots to work autonomously and safely. The introduction of the New Atlas also signifies the retirement of the beloved hydraulic-based robot. Boston Dynamics bid farewell to the original Atlas robot in a humorous video that highlights its successes, but also its amusing mishaps. Alongside completing impressive parkour routines, the robot had its fair share of tumbles, face-plants, and hydraulic line bursts. This video serves as a funny and endearing tribute to a robot that has captured the imagination of millions. It is a fitting conclusion to one chapter as Boston Dynamics embarks on this new journey with the all-electric Atlas. While we have only witnessed 30 seconds of movement so far, I am confident that we will soon see this more personable robot dancing alongside SPOT, back-flipping off ledges, and winning our hearts through acrobatic parkour feats.