We asked a humanoid robot if there is an AI bubble. Here's what it said.

The ongoing discourse surrounding the potential AI bubble has captured the tech sector's attention this year, and one humanoid robot has shared its perspective on the matter. KOID, a sleek humanoid robot with a striking black metal exterior and a vibrant illuminated face, is produced by Unitree, a leading tech company in China. Notably, KOID shares its name with a recently launched ETF by KraneShares that targets robotics firms. During an interview with CNBC, KOID acknowledged the AI bubble conversation as a "hot topic" but maintained a neutral stance on whether the current enthusiasm for artificial intelligence is indicative of a bubble. "There is a lot of excitement surrounding AI right now, but whether it's merely a bubble or a true transformative wave remains to be seen," KOID remarked. Weighing approximately 77 pounds, KOID is one of the G1 models offered by Unitree, featuring 23 points of freedom that allow for a wide range of movements, from dancing to boxing. The robot is currently available for purchase on RoboStore, the largest distributor of Unitree robots in the United States, with prices ranging from $8,990 to $128,900. RoboStore's CEO, Teddy Haggerty, expressed that while KOID can be programmed for various tasks, the industry is still in a phase of exploration regarding the role of robots in everyday life. "What is it that we truly want robots to accomplish? Should they serve as housekeepers, assist in manufacturing, or replace human jobs?" Haggerty asked. In contrast, KOID is more optimistic about its future, suggesting that robots could become increasingly versatile and integrated into daily routines. "They will assist in various fields, from home assistance to industrial applications, ultimately making life easier and more efficient," the robot stated. The competition in humanoid robotics has intensified this past year, with companies like Boston Dynamics and Agility Robotics making strides in the field. Tesla's Optimus robots have also garnered attention, with CEO Elon Musk asserting their potential to significantly impact the company's future value. While Optimus robots have yet to be released to the public, Chinese firms are accelerating production efforts, with Unitree at the forefront. The company has distinguished itself in competitions such as the World Robot Conference and World Humanoid Robot Games, and it is preparing for an initial public offering that could value it at up to $7 billion, having launched its latest H2 model earlier this year.