We spoke to 3 robotics experts at Davos. They said this was the next big challenge for humanoid robots. (www.businessinsider.com)

At a recent panel at Davos, three robotics experts highlighted the critical challenges facing humanoid robots as they aim to transition from eye-catching demonstrations to practical, real-world applications. Jake Loosararian, CEO of Gecko Robotics, emphasized the need for better data collection in the environments where robots will operate, suggesting that proximity to real-world settings is essential for creating reliable models. He pointed out that many current demos are conducted in controlled environments, sometimes utilizing teleoperation, which he described as the “dirty little secret” of robotics. Daniela Rus from MIT and Shao Tianlan of Mech-Mind echoed similar concerns, stressing the importance of improved sensors and AI models to enable robots to perform everyday tasks, like loading dishwashers and working alongside human coworkers in factories. Tianlan predicted that humanoid robots would begin to handle specific jobs in controlled settings within months, pushing the industry toward practical deployments. The ongoing advancements in sensors and AI are pivotal as the community aims to bridge the gap between laboratory capabilities and real-world usability, ultimately paving the way for humanoid robots to deliver tangible benefits in various sectors.