Boston Dynamics, a renowned tech company, recently revealed its latest creation – a fully electric humanoid robot. This new robotic wonder is making waves in the tech world, but it’s also raising some eyebrows due to its uncanny resemblance to a sci-fi thriller.
Boston Dynamics introduced the world to its newest creation on a recent Wednesday. The fully electric humanoid robot, dubbed ‘Atlas’, is designed to tackle real-world tasks and has been in development for several years. This new model is set to replace the company’s older hydraulic-powered robot.
The new Atlas, designed for commercial use, is touted as stronger and having a broader range of motion than its predecessor. The company proudly announced on its website, “The electric version of Atlas will be stronger, with a broader range of motion than any of our previous generations,” the company said on its website.
Social media users were given a glimpse of the latest Atlas in action through a video posted by Boston Dynamics. The footage showcases the robot’s ability to get up from the ground and walk towards the camera, reminding some viewers of scenes from the movie “I, Robot.”
We promise this is not a person in a bodysuit. https://t.co/S9FgfpqvrW pic.twitter.com/G30sXHQ93C
— Boston Dynamics (@BostonDynamics) April 17, 2024
We promise this is not a person in a bodysuit. – Boston Dynamics
The new Atlas is built like a human and seems to have a 360-degree range mobility for each of its joints. Its movements, while advanced, have been described as unusual and unnatural, causing some viewers to label the robot as ‘creepy’.
While some social media users expressed excitement and awe at the technological advancements embodied in the robot, others were unsettled by its lifelike movements. Comments ranged from comparisons to scenes from “The Exorcist” and “The Ring” to warnings about a potential ‘Terminator’ scenario.
Boston Dynamics, in partnership with Hyundai, plans to “test and iterate” applications for the new Atlas over the next few years.
This is the first look at a real product. But it certainly isn’t the last. – Boston Dynamics
The company is enthusiastic about the potential of its newest creation and promises to showcase what the world’s most dynamic humanoid robot can do in the lab, in factories, and in our everyday lives.
Last year, Boston Dynamics collaborated with the New York Police Department to deploy several crime-fighting robots for patrolling Times Square and subway stations.