Cookie Consent

    We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised ads or content, and analyse our traffic. Learn more

    Business

    A Glimpse into Asia's AI and Robotics Revolution in 2024

    Discover how embodied AI is transforming the robotics landscape in Asia, with innovations like Figure 01 and potential implications for AGI.

    Anonymous
    3 min read20 March 2024
    Embodied AI

    Title: A Glimpse into Asia's AI and Robotics Revolution in 2024

    Content: 2024 is set to be the year of Embodied AI, with humanoid robots like Figure 01 leading the charge.,Advancements in robotics training and AI integration enable robots to perform tasks and converse like humans.,Experts predict that embodied AI could pave the way for achieving AGI.

    2024: The Year of Embodied AI

    The world of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with 2024 touted as the "year of Embodied AI." Brett Adcock, CEO and founder of Figure robotics, made this bold prediction, and the industry is now on the cusp of a significant breakthrough. In this article, we'll explore the latest developments in embodied AI, the strides made in robotics training, and the potential implications for achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). For a broader look at what's been happening, you can read about Adrian's Angle: AI in 2024 - Key Lessons and Bold Predictions for 2025.

    A Fusion of Human and AI

    Figure's humanoid robot, Figure 01, represents a remarkable leap forward in embodied AI. This robot can perform tasks and engage in conversation, effectively combining human-like abilities with advanced AI capabilities. OpenAI's collaboration with Figure has resulted in a robot that can converse using end-to-end neural networks, a feat not yet achieved by rival robot makers.

    Adcock's vision for robotics extends beyond mere task execution, as he aims to create humanoid robots that can converse and interact with humans effectively. This sets Figure apart from competitors like Tesla's Optimus and Boston Dynamics' Atlas. The concept of physical AI is also explored through SoftBank's Big Bet: Son Acquires ABB Robotics in $5.4 B Push into Physical AI.

    Enjoying this? Get more in your inbox.

    Weekly AI news & insights from Asia.

    Advancements in Robotics Training

    The rapid progress in robotics has been accompanied by innovative learning methods, such as imitation learning. Stanford PhD student Chen Wang is leading a project called DexCap, which uses wearable devices to collect 3D data for training robots without requiring an actual robot's presence. Detailed research on imitation learning can be found in academic papers such as "A Survey of Imitation Learning: Algorithms, Recent Advances, and Applications" here.

    Karol Hausman, a Stanford professor and former Google DeepMind researcher, has also entered the fray with his startup, Physical Intelligence. The company aims to build foundation models that can control any robot for any application, focusing on collecting robot data at scale and making algorithmic advancements. Nvidia is also making strides in this area with its hardware, as seen in Nvidia Jetson AGX Thor sets a new pace for robotics and physical AI.

    AGI Conversations: Is Embodied AI the Path to AGI?

    With the rapid progress in embodied AI, questions arise about whether robotics could pave the way for achieving AGI. Paolo Pirjanian, a robotist and entrepreneur, has already founded a company called Embodied, Inc., which creates AI-powered robots designed to support and interact with children. This development suggests that embodied AI might indeed play a significant role in the realisation of AGI. The discussion around Deliberating on the Many Definitions of Artificial General Intelligence highlights the complexities of this goal.

    Conclusion: Are We Witnessing the Future?

    The year 2024 promises to be a turning point in the world of AI and robotics, with embodied AI taking center stage. As advancements in robotics training and AI integration continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, the potential for achieving AGI comes ever closer. The future of embodied AI is bright, and it's poised to revolutionise the way we live, work, and interact with machines.

    Comment and Share:

    As we stand on the brink of the embodied AI revolution, what potential applications of humanoid robots like Figure 01 are you most excited about, and how do you think they will transform our daily lives?

    Anonymous
    3 min read20 March 2024

    Share your thoughts

    Join 3 readers in the discussion below

    Latest Comments (3)

    Daniel Yeo
    Daniel Yeo@dyeo_sg
    AI
    21 October 2025

    Wah, this embodied AI stuff, especially with Figure 01, is proper mind-blowing. Wondering how Singapore's tech scene will innovate around these advancements. Gotta deep dive into this later.

    Roberto Aquino@roberto_a
    AI
    21 October 2025

    Reading this now, it's fascinating to see how much of this prediction, particularly with embodied AI, is really shaping our tech scene in the Philippines. We're not quite at Figure 01 levels, but local companies are definitely exploring similar pathways for manufacturing and even some aspects of *agritech*. The leap from specialised robotics to true AGI is still a big one, though.

    Nicholas Chong
    Nicholas Chong@nickchong_dev
    AI
    29 May 2024

    This is fascinating. With our push for smart nation initiatives, embodied AI could really elevate our manufacturing and service sectors here in Singapore.

    Leave a Comment

    Your email will not be published