Boston Dynamics is training an AI-powered humanoid robot to do factory work - CBS News

With rapid advances in artificial intelligence, computer scientists and engineers are making progress in developing robots that look and act like humans. A global race is underway to develop humanoid robots for widespread use.

Boston Dynamics has established itself as a frontrunner in the field. With support from South Korean carmaker Hyundai, which owns an 88% stake in Boston Dynamics, the Massachusetts company is testing a new generation of its humanoid robot, Atlas. When 60 Minutes visited Boston Dynamics' headquarters in 2021, Atlas was a bulky, hydraulic robot that could run and jump. Back then, Atlas relied on algorithms written by engineers. The Atlas of today is sleeker, with an all-electric body and an AI brain powered by Nvidia's advanced microchips, making it smart enough to master hard-to-believe feats. Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter spearheaded the company's humanoid development.

"There's a lot of excitement in the industry right now about the potential of building robots that are smart enough to really become general purpose," he said.

Goldman Sachs predicts the market for humanoids will reach $38 billion within the decade. Boston Dynamics and other U.S. robot makers are fighting to come out on top. State-supported Chinese companies are also in the race.