The 7 Most Fascinating Humanoid Robots of 2024
Summary
In 2024, seven groundbreaking humanoid robots showcased advancements in robotics, from lifelike facial expressions to remarkable dexterity and agility. While most remain prototypes, these robots hint at a future where humanoids could outpace humans in efficiency and intelligence, revolutionizing industries. Notable examples include Apollo, a general-purpose robot; Digit, a warehouse worker already in use; and Optimus Gen 2, Tesla’s sleek creation poised for factory deployment in 2025.
From a disembodied torso to a robot with eerily human-like facial expressions, here are seven humanoid robots that redefined the boundaries of robotics in 2024.
If you’re worried about humanoid robots taking over jobs by 2025, rest easy for now. The few commercially available models are slow, limited, and mostly suited to repetitive, menial tasks like moving objects onto conveyor belts.
However, experts predict this will change by the end of the decade. Humanoid robots are expected to become faster, smarter, and more efficient than humans, able to work longer hours and cost less annually. Many experts believe they will transform into essential workforce contributors, surpassing the best AI chatbots in reasoning abilities.
Skepticism is warranted—robotics companies have made bold claims that often fall short. As of now, only one robot on this list is actively working. Yet, advancements suggest that in five years, robots could combine the dexterity of Atlas, the emotional intelligence of Ameca, the manual skill of Phoenix, the conversational abilities of Figure 02, and the sleek design of Optimus. Here are the seven robots leading the charge.
7. Apollo: The General-Purpose Robot
Standing 5’8″ (1.73 m), Apollo by Apptronik is designed for versatility. It could potentially assist in elder care or work in factories, thanks to its Nvidia-powered AI that allows it to learn by observing humans. Currently, Apollo remains a prototype, with Mercedes-Benz testing it in factory scenarios.
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6. Digit: The Tireless Worker
Digit, from Agility Robotics, is already employed at GXO Logistics in Georgia. This 5’9″ (1.75 m) robot moves 35-pound (16 kg) boxes with its backward-facing legs, optimized for warehouse tasks. While functional, Digit’s design prioritizes efficiency over aesthetics, with LED “eyes” for a friendlier appearance. The price tag? $36,000.
5. Phoenix: The Dexterous Robot
Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix excels in precision, boasting highly tactile fingers capable of manipulating objects like a 12-sided die. The modular design allows Phoenix to gain new skills through hardware upgrades and on-the-job learning. Currently, it’s a prototype, with its debut being a week-long trial in a Canadian retail store packing merchandise.
4. Figure 02: The Conversational Robot
Resembling a character from science fiction, Figure 02 stands 5’6″ (1.68 m) and is powered by OpenAI’s language models, enabling it to converse naturally and perform tasks like handing over an apple. With dexterous fingers and the ability to learn from errors, Figure 02 is advanced yet still in the prototype stage.
3. Ameca: The Emotionally Intelligent Robot
Created by Engineered Arts, Ameca features lifelike hands, expressive facial movements, and flexible skin. It can smile and respond quickly to questions, thanks to its onboard or cloud-based AI. Though stationary, its modular design allows for attachment to wheels or purchase as a torso-and-head unit.
2. Atlas: The Agile Robot
Boston Dynamics’ Atlas is a 5-foot-tall (1.5 m) powerhouse with remarkable balance and agility. It can run at 5.6 mph (9 km/h), jump, and perform backflips. Equipped with AI vision, Atlas excels at navigating tough terrain but remains a prototype for now.
1. Optimus Gen 2: The Sleek Innovator
Tesla’s Optimus Gen 2 captivated audiences at the “We, Robot” event in October 2024, showcasing its 5’8″ humanoid robots serving drinks—albeit with human-controlled hands.Tesla aims to integrate AI and sensors to make Optimus fully autonomous, with plans to roll them out in factories by 2025.
These seven robots represent the cutting edge of humanoid robotics, offering a glimpse into a future where machines may reshape the way we work and live.