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The Future of Robotics: Opportunities and Challenges

From Humanoid Robots to Cultural Jokes

The journey of humanoid robots has been marked by high hopes and embarrassing setbacks. Recently, Russia unveiled its first humanoid robot amid much fanfare, only for the robot to be dragged off stage in a less-than-glamorous exit. This incident highlights how far robotics technology still has to go to meet public expectations. Meanwhile, in the United States, more approachable and functional robots like Rosie the Robot, inspired by Hanna-Barbera, are being developed to assist with household chores. Neo, a robot aimed at improving domestic life, claims to be capable of seeing, hearing, and understanding its environment to provide tailored assistance, all for a hefty $30,000 price tag.