I met a lot of weird robots at CES — here are the most memorable

The CES event has once again proven to be a hub for groundbreaking robotics, featuring an array of fascinating developments. Among the standout presentations was Boston Dynamics' Atlas, which made a significant impact with its production-ready humanoid design. The event floor was bustling with a variety of robots, each serving as a glimpse into the future of technology and marketing, albeit not always reflecting current commercial realities. One of the most entertaining displays was a ping pong-playing robot created by the Chinese company Sharpa. This full-bodied robot faced off against a human in a match that showcased its capabilities, even if it was trailing at 5-9. While the pace of the game was leisurely, the novelty of seeing a robot engage in such a sport was captivating. Sharpa's primary focus lies in developing robotic hands, and the ping pong bot was introduced to highlight the dexterity of their technology. Another crowd favorite came from EngineAI, which presented its T800 humanoid robots in a mock boxing arena. While they didn't engage in actual combat, their shadowboxing antics captivated onlookers. The unpredictability of their movements added to the entertainment, with one bot amusingly wandering into the audience and another stumbling and falling over. Dancing robots also made a return this year, with Unitree showcasing their impressive range. Known for their humanoid robots capable of running at speeds up to 11 mph, the company managed to entertain attendees without any hint of controversy. Galbot, another Chinese firm, demonstrated its convenience store robot that interacts with customers through a menu app. The robot fetched items on request, providing a glimpse into how such technology could be integrated into everyday settings, like pharmacies. Dyna Robotics presented a significant achievement in automation with its laundry-folding robot. This demonstration illustrated the potential for robots to perform complex tasks efficiently, with partnerships already established in various industries, including hospitality and laundry services. Lastly, LG unveiled its home robot, CLOid, which charmed visitors with its design, even if it wasn't the quickest model available. Overall, CES showcased the diverse potential of robotics, leaving attendees excited for what’s next in this rapidly evolving field.