Austin-based startup, Apptronik, has unveiled a humanoid robot named Apollo, which will be deployed in warehouses to carry out basic tasks alongside human workers. Standing at five feet and eight inches tall and weighing around 160 pounds, Apollo can lift up to 55 pounds. “Initially, it’s going to start working in the supply chain, doing basic material handling tasks, moving boxes and totes,” said Apptronik CEO Jeff Cardenas.
Despite early challenges such as maintaining balance and holding a charge, Cardenas is optimistic about Apollo’s potential, stating it’s “a software update away from a new feature or functionality.” He also mentioned that the model is ready for “mass manufacturability,” with plans to enter full production by the end of 2024.
According to Goldman Sachs, humanoid robots like Apollo could be economically viable in factory settings between 2025 to 2028, and in consumer applications between 2030 and 2035. Their research suggests a market worth $6 billion for people-sized-and-shaped robots in the next 10 to 15 years, potentially filling 4% of the projected U.S. manufacturing labor shortage by 2030 and 2% of global elderly care demand by 2035. However, they noted that such technology has yet to be successfully commercialized, primarily because models like Apollo need frequent recharging.
See full story at American Greatness.
Jack McPherrin ([email protected]) is a managing editor of StoppingSocialism.com, research editor for The Heartland Institute, and a research fellow for Heartland's Socialism Research Center. He holds an MA in International Affairs from Loyola University-Chicago, and a dual BA in Economics and History from Boston College.
