AI and Robotics in 2026: Unprecedented Development, Unresolved Questions (www.bogdandeac.com)

At CES 2026, the shift of AI from digital platforms to physical robotics was highlighted, marking a significant evolution in technology. However, this transition reveals serious shortcomings in planning, infrastructure, and safety. The AI community is facing an urgent need for over $400 billion in investments for infrastructure by 2026, as energy demands for AI workloads have surged, with some models requiring as much power as needed for 1.5 million homes daily. Companies like Boston Dynamics and NVIDIA are racing to develop humanoid robots, but they struggle with logistical challenges and resource management, raising concerns about the societal impact and safety of these technologies. The rapid development of AI and robotics has led to a lack of clear objectives from companies, with many investing heavily without a coherent vision for their applications. This trajectory risks replicating past tech bubbles but poses greater dangers due to the physical presence of AI. Furthermore, the integration of AI into real-world systems has raised significant cybersecurity risks, including data vulnerabilities and threats from rogue AI agents. Experts emphasize the importance of establishing clear goals, robust infrastructure planning, and comprehensive security frameworks before further embedding AI in society, warning that without these measures, the potential benefits of AI could be overshadowed by profound ethical and operational risks.