Robot Companies Are Losing Their Way

Marathons, boxing matches, martial arts performances—the robotics world is lively. Behind all that excitement, though, I feel that many robot companies are losing their way.

If the goal is the mass consumer market, these performances can at best demonstrate the upper limits of a robot’s capabilities. They may do little to win that market or shape the right expectations. They may even backfire.

When people repeatedly see robots fall or lose control while pushing their limits, their first impression may be less “That is powerful” and more “That is not safe enough yet.” If robots keep making public spectacles of their failures, how will consumers associate them with reliability and stability at home or in industrial settings?

I am not saying that robots cannot make mistakes, or that rankings have no value. But many companies rush to show off through rankings and performances before their products are mature. These displays may erode consumer trust and encourage people to see robots as toys rather than tools.

For ordinary consumers, which is more appealing: a stable, safe robot that fits into everyday life, or an exceptionally capable robot that might lose control? Users need stability, not performance at the limit.

Today’s active robot rental market also suggests that many people still see robots as props for performances. Once industrial and everyday applications take hold, the market may undergo a reshuffle. Robots that excel onstage may not win in factories and homes.

If robots are eventually to enter homes everywhere, perhaps the more important message is not a repeated demonstration of “Look how far I can push my limits,” but the assurance that you can feel safe bringing this robot home. Races and performances alone cannot build that trust.