Friends of The Future - AI and Humanoid Robots - How Will We Adapt
- Priscilla Nakane
- Jan 3
- 6 min read
Updated: Jan 17
Over the past year, AI has been the hot topic on everyone’s lips, driving a wave of innovation that seems to be advancing at lightning speed—or at least it feels that way. Among the most fascinating developments has been the progress in humanoid robotics. While the concept of humanoid robots has been around for decades, the dream of seeing them fully integrated into mainstream life has felt like a long time coming.
I can still recall the buzz from well over 20 years ago about a future where robots would serve as companions, employees, pets, and even therapists. Basically a world that truly looked like scenes out of the childhood cartoon known as The Jetsons. That vision may finally be on the cusp of reality.
Although the first iterations of humanoid robots and companion devices made their debut a few years ago, today’s AI-driven humanoids are raising the bar. They are becoming increasingly intuitive, with the ability to understand context, recognize emotions, and multitask seamlessly across platforms—bringing us closer than ever to the future we once could only imagine. Time and further development in innovation have afforded the modern AI humanoid to do more than just automate mundane tasks; they can anticipate needs, personalizes interactions, and learn from their users over time. Imagine waking up to a robot assistant that prepares your morning coffee, updates you on the day’s schedule, and suggests the best route to work, all while adapting its tone and approach based on your mood. Sounds pretty great, right?
This year at CES 2025, there were quite a few robotics companies to see and discover. Las Vegas based Realbotix unveiled an upgraded humanoid personal robot named Melody, different from their popular model Aria (a model in every sense of the word). For context, Realbotix creates customizable, full-bodied, human-like robots with AI integration that (according to the company) improve the human experience through connection, learning and play. They have a proprietary AI system designed to enable natural conversation and interaction with users, with emphasis on companionship and learning. Their capabilities are quite impressive, and both their Melody and Aria model are so lifelike, you'll need to do a double take.
Moving on from the pornstar looking humanoids, Richtech Robotics, also based in Las Vegas, was another robotics company that unveiled an upgraded robot model during CES 2025. More in line with what we'd expect to see in consumer tech, Richtech Robotics specializes in developing robotic solutions primarily for the food service industry, including restaurants and hospitality, where they initially gained traction by providing automated systems for tasks like food delivery and cleaning. Their latest innovations, the ADAM and Scorpion robots, both employ NVIDIA AI technology to enhance customer interactions and adapt to environmental changes. They pride themselves on having their service robots implemented across the country in restaurants, hotels, casinos, senior living homes, factories and retail centers. ADAM, their humanoid robot with two arms, acts as a bartender and is especially popular for crafting customized cocktails, having great conversation, and being adaptable to most social and physical environments while SCORPION is a single armed robot bust and thereby a smaller unit who excels at single arm beverage service, vs. mixologist movements requiring two hands.
We can't talk about humanoid robot companions without talking about the rise of robopets. Companies showcasing robopets at this year's CES were a plenty, many from China, Korea, and Japan. One of our favorites was the Sparky dog by Hengbot. Hengbot's Sparky is an advanced robotic dog designed for interactive companionship and versatile functionality. Equipped with AI-driven sensors, Sparky can walk, run, dance, recognize voices, and respond to commands. Sparky was developed to provide a unique blend of companionship, functionality, and advanced technology. Sparky is powered by state-of-the-art AI, enabling it to adapt to its owner’s habits over time.
But how do we adapt to all of this new innovation that is sure to change life as we know it and the way we interact with friends, family, and others? How do we ensure ethical development? How do we balance human interaction with robotic support? And most importantly, how can we leverage these technologies to build a better, more connected future?
There's no simple answer. In fact, at this point, there may be no answer at all since everything in this arena is so new and unchartered. But by exploring these questions and embracing innovation responsibly, we can help to ensure that the rise of AI humanoids and robot companions enhances human potential rather than replacing it.
As we adopt acceptance of humanoids, AI robots, and other cutting edge innovations, we must prepare ourselves and future generations for the fine balance needed to navigate non human AI companionship and use. These cutting-edge technologies offer incredible benefits, from increased efficiency to emotional support, but they also raise important questions about dependency, ethics, and the future of interpersonal relationships. So it's important for us to be conscious and prepare ourselves and future generations for this paradigm shift.
Education and Awareness
To navigate a future where AI companions are prevalent, education is paramount. Schools and universities must integrate AI literacy into their curriculums, teaching students not only how AI works but also its ethical implications and societal impact.
By fostering critical thinking, individuals can better understand the benefits and limitations of AI. For instance, discussions around data privacy, the risks of over-reliance on robots, and the potential for job displacement can help future generations make informed decisions about AI adoption.
In addition, public awareness campaigns can help demystify AI technologies, addressing fears and misconceptions while highlighting their potential to enhance daily life.
Cultivating Emotional Resilience
One of the greatest concerns about AI companionship is the risk of diminishing human-to-human relationships. To counteract this, we must actively cultivate emotional resilience and prioritize real-world social connections.
Parents, educators, and community leaders can encourage face-to-face interactions, emotional intelligence, and empathy from an early age. By emphasizing the value of human relationships, future generations can embrace AI as a complement to—not a replacement for—human interaction.
Ethical and Cultural Adaptation
Ethical frameworks are essential for ensuring that AI humanoids and robots are developed and used responsibly. Governments, businesses, and thought leaders must work together to create policies that protect individual rights, promote inclusivity, and prevent misuse.
On a cultural level, societies must adapt to accept non-human companions without losing sight of core human values. This includes creating narratives—through literature, media, and art—that explore the coexistence of humans and AI, helping people envision positive outcomes of this integration.
Redefining Roles and Skills
As robots and AI take on more tasks, humans will need to focus on uniquely human roles, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving. Future generations must develop skills that cannot be easily automated, ensuring they remain relevant in an AI-driven world.
Lifelong learning will become a necessity, with a focus on adaptability and innovation. Educational systems and businesses must provide opportunities for reskilling and upskilling, helping individuals thrive alongside AI.
Establishing Boundaries for AI Integration
To maintain a healthy relationship with AI companions, individuals and families should establish clear boundaries. These might include limiting screen time or robot interaction in favor of engaging with loved ones, or ensuring that AI is used primarily as a tool rather than a substitute for meaningful relationships.
At a societal level, regulations can guide the appropriate use of AI in sensitive areas such as caregiving, education, and therapy, ensuring that human oversight remains a priority.
Encouraging Intergenerational Dialogues
As AI companions become more common, generational divides in understanding and acceptance may emerge. Bridging these gaps through open dialogue is essential.
Older generations can share wisdom and values, emphasizing the importance of preserving human connection, while younger generations can bring fresh perspectives on the potential of AI. By fostering mutual respect and learning, families and communities can build a shared vision of the future.
Promoting Inclusivity and Accessibility
Finally, ensuring that AI technologies are accessible and inclusive is key to fostering equitable adoption. AI companions should be designed to meet the diverse needs of people across cultures, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds.
For example, robot companions could be customized for individuals with disabilities, offering assistance tailored to their unique challenges. Similarly, affordable AI solutions can ensure that benefits are not limited to the wealthy but are available to all. And let's not forget to be vocal and encourage manufacturers to create diversity in ethnicities and aesthetics when developing humanoid robot aesthetics. There should be an array of options so that most ethnicity groups will find a unit that compliments or fits their desired aesthetic.
As we embrace these innovations, the ultimate goal should be to strike a balance—leveraging AI to empower and uplift humanity while preserving the connections and values that make us truly human. The future is not about choosing between humans and AI but learning how to thrive together.