Elon Musk’s New Robot ‘Optimus’ Can Do Anything—But Is That a Cause for Concern?

Tesla has made headlines since its highly anticipated “We, Robot” event on Thursday, October 10th.

It’s unveiled robot, Optimus aims to revolutionize daily tasks for consumers.

Standing at 5 feet 8 inches, the robot is designed to perform a variety of tasks typically reserved for humans, such as delivering packages, watering plants, and even interacting with attendees.

The robot’s uncanny human-like abilities include refined hand movements, tactile sensors for better interaction, and the ability to respond conversationally to questions posed by people.

During the event, Tesla CEO Elon Musk declared, “The Optimus will walk amongst you.”

According to him, the robot had the capacity to serve drinks, walk dogs, and babysit children.

“It can basically do anything you want. It can be a teacher,” he said.

Remarkably, Optimus was put to the test in live interactions. In a particularly striking moment, a man named John engaged in a conversation with the robot.

When asked about the hardest part of being a robot, Optimus paused and responded, “Trying to learn how to be as human as you guys are. And that’s something I try to do harder every day and I hope that you’ll help us become that.”

This exchange captivated online users, with one commenting,

“It’s only as scary as the human programmers make them.”

Another added: “I hope they aspire to emulate the more empathetic and sociable characteristics of humans.”

The event also featured an amusing interaction between Optimus and rapper 2 Chainz, who humorously offered to buy the robot a Balenciaga outfit after discussing basketball.

https://youtu.be/yjT9TCeYRW8

The estimated cost for an Optimus robot ranges from $20,000 to $30,000, a price Musk believes will make it accessible to many. “I think everyone among the 8 billion people on Earth will want an Optimus buddy,” he added.

The Optimus Gen 2 model showcases significant enhancements over its predecessor, which was initially revealed in 2021.

Improvements include increased walking speed, refined hand movements, and tactile sensors for better interaction, allowing the robots to engage with users in a more human-like manner.

However , Musk has announced plans for a lighter, faster version of the robot, with the goal of having them perform “useful tasks” by the end of the year and available for purchase by next year.

“This will be the most significant product ever created,” Musk claimed.

While many users praised the event and the technology, with some calling it “epic” and “insane,” skepticism lingeres, particularly concerning the robots’ ability to interact convincingly with humans.

Comments included:

  • “Is it really Optimus talking? Kinda feeling there’s a human behind it.”
  • “The ones mingling and serving drinks were remotely operated but still really impressive.”
  • “What’s the ‘there were good intentions’ lifespan of something like this before it turns around and kills its owner? Just wondering before I buy.”
  • “I have seen this film. It does not end well for us.”
Tesla’s Cybertaxi

In addition to Optimus, Tesla introduced plans for a robotaxi set for release by 2027, which will operate without a steering wheel or pedals and is expected to be “10 to 20 times safer” than human-driven vehicles.

The Robovan, designed to transport up to 20 passengers, also made its debut.

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