The world of humanoid robotics is witnessing an exciting competition between two leading contenders: Figure’s 02 and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas. While Atlas has been making headlines with its push-ups and burpees, Figure is quietly positioning itself as a formidable competitor with its GPT-4o-mini powered robot.
Figure, backed by a dream team of investors and partnered with OpenAI, is taking a different approach to robot development. Their use of large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4o for robot control is a game-changing strategy. These models can generate and edit reward functions, allowing for more efficient and effective training of robotic systems.
For instance, GPT-4V was recently used to create and refine a reward function for a robotic dog AI. The task? Staying atop a deflating exercise ball for as long as possible. This demonstrates the potential for AI to train robots to perform tasks even better than humans in some cases.
While Atlas has shown impressive physical capabilities, Figure’s integration of advanced AI could give it a significant edge. The ability to rapidly adapt and learn new tasks through sophisticated language models could accelerate Figure’s development pace beyond that of traditional robotics companies.
The implications of this technology extend far beyond simple demonstrations. Future iterations of these robots could transform fields such as:
- Disaster response, with more adaptable rescue robots
- Healthcare, through advanced prosthetics and assistive devices
- Manufacturing, potentially reshaping labor-intensive industries
As AI and robotics progress, we must consider the economic and societal implications. The integration of LLMs as interfaces could enhance the utility and accessibility of these robots, potentially accelerating their adoption across various sectors.
It’s crucial to note that while these advancements are impressive, we’re not yet at the point where robots will entirely replace human workers. Instead, we should view these developments as tools to augment human capabilities and improve efficiency.
The ongoing progress in AI and robotics necessitates thoughtful consideration of both the potential benefits and ethical implications. As the field rapidly advances, it’s essential to engage in discussions about its societal impact and ensure responsible development and implementation.
Keep an eye on Figure and its competitors as they push the boundaries of what’s possible in humanoid robotics. The race is on, and the outcomes could significantly influence the future of work, healthcare, and beyond.
