“Humanoid robots” could be a common sight in homes within the next five to 10 years as more affordable models enter the market, scientists say.
Yao Yunchang, of the Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre in Zhejiang, China, highlighted these insights while speaking at the World Robot Conference in Beijing. The claims come shortly after Chinese scientists created a “Frankenstein-style” robot using machinery combined with human brain cells.
He pointed out that with increasing robot demand and rapid technological advancements, domestic robots could soon integrate into the daily lives of ordinary people.
Emphasizing the cost factor as critical for widespread adoption, Yunchang added: “Humanoid robots are often seen in industrial settings, but the more important factor for them entering everyday life is their costs need to drop to a level that the general public can afford.”
Looking ahead, he anticipates significant progress in the near future: “We anticipate that humanoid robots could see large-scale applications in industrial settings as early as next year or the year after. We should see some trial deployments in service scenarios across various regions as early as next year.”
However, Wang Lei, who leads Shanghai Qingbao Engine Robot company, cast doubt on such forecasts.
Despite his company selling robots for roughly 200k yuan (about £20k), he cautioned: “There are…issues of safety and reliability. Many challenges cannot be addressed quickly; it’s a long-term process of accumulation.”
