What happened to the Honda robot?
In a surprising turn of events, Honda's much-anticipated humanoid robot project has been abruptly discontinued. The robot, known as ASIMO, was once hailed as a technological marvel, showcasing Honda's prowess in robotics and artificial intelligence. However, the company has now decided to shift its focus away from humanoid robots, leaving many to wonder what happened to this ambitious endeavor.
The Rise and Fall of ASIMO
ASIMO, short for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility, was first introduced to the world in 2000. The robot was designed to mimic human movements and behaviors, with the ability to walk, run, climb stairs, and even interact with people. Over the years, ASIMO became a symbol of Honda's technological prowess, making appearances at various events and demonstrations around the world.
However, despite the initial excitement and fanfare surrounding ASIMO, the project has now been discontinued. Honda has cited a shift in its strategic priorities as the primary reason for this decision. The company has decided to focus its resources on the development of other technologies, such as advanced driver assistance systems and electric vehicles, rather than continuing to invest in humanoid robotics.
Reasons for the Discontinuation
There are several factors that may have contributed to Honda's decision to discontinue the ASIMO project:
- Technological Limitations: While ASIMO was an impressive feat of engineering, the robot's capabilities were still limited compared to the human form. Challenges such as balance, dexterity, and adaptability to real-world environments proved to be significant hurdles for the project.
- Commercial Viability: Despite the public fascination with ASIMO, the robot did not have a clear commercial application or path to profitability. The high cost of development and maintenance made it difficult to justify continued investment in the project.
- Shifting Priorities: Honda's decision to shift its focus to other technologies, such as autonomous driving and electric vehicles, suggests that the company sees greater potential and strategic value in these areas compared to humanoid robotics.
While the discontinuation of the ASIMO project may be disappointing for some, it reflects the dynamic nature of the technology industry and the need for companies to adapt to changing market demands and priorities.
The Future of Humanoid Robotics
Despite the setback for Honda's ASIMO project, the field of humanoid robotics continues to evolve. Other companies and research institutions around the world are actively exploring the development of advanced humanoid robots, with the goal of overcoming the technological and commercial challenges that have plagued previous efforts.
As the technology continues to progress, it is possible that we may see a resurgence of interest and investment in humanoid robotics in the years to come. However, for now, the fate of ASIMO serves as a reminder that even the most ambitious technological projects are subject to the realities of the market and the shifting priorities of the companies that develop them.
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Why did ASIMO fail?
While ASIMO was an impressive technological advancement, it was expensive to build, operate, and maintain. Though companies like Boston Dynamics and Softbank were advancing humanoids like Atlas and Pepper, industrial and service robots for specific tasks were more commercially viable.
Does Honda still make ASIMO?
It made its last active appearance in March 2022, over 20 years after its first, as Honda announced that they are retiring the robot to concentrate on remote-controlled, avatar-style, robotic technology.
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between $20,000 and $30,000
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Spooner, Calvin, and Sonny fight their way to VIKI's core, and Spooner manages to destroy it with nanites. Once the NS-5 robots disconnect from VIKI, they revert to their default programming and are subsequently decommissioned.
What is ASIMO doing now?
It made its last active appearance in March 2022, over 20 years after its first, as Honda announced that they are retiring the robot to concentrate on remote-controlled, avatar-style, robotic technology.
How much does the Honda robot cost?
Honda Asimo costs $1.3M, a Boston Dynamics Atlas even $1.6M. Both humanoid robots lack reasonable hands. That's another $240k for two Shadow hands or $800k for two MPL hands. They also need a sense of touch, for example the iCub skin or the H-1 skin for the body and BioTac or GelSight sensors for the fingertips.
Why did Honda stop making robots?
It is displayed in the Miraikan museum in Tokyo, Japan. On 8 July 2018, Honda posted the last update of ASIMO on their official page stating that it would be ceasing all development and production of ASIMO robots in order to focus on more practical applications using the technology developed through ASIMO's lifespan.
Is ASIMO retired?
Honda first debuted Asimo in 2000. Despite retiring the robot from public appearances in 2022, Honda has since continued to make advancements in related technology.
