It’s interesting to see how quickly Tesla’s robotics team is moving forward under its CEO’s leadership. It’s been just over two years since Elon Musk first announced the company’s foray into humanoid robots with Optimus robot aimed at eliminating dangerous, repetitive, and boring tasks. The company released a prototype of the robot in September 2022 and then showcased a major update in May 2023.
Just a few months later, Tesla has already introduced an all-new Optimus Gen 2 humanoid robot as the new state of the art. The newly unveiled Optimus Gen 2 hints at a future where robots transcend the factory floor and potentially integrate into our daily lives.
According to the video revealed by the company, Optimus Gen 2 has undergone significant upgrades since its previous iteration, which was unveiled in May this year. Optimus Gen 2 is now 10 kg (22 lb) lighter, 30% faster, much smoother, and more capable, and it looks much more human in the way it moves.
In addition, the new version of the robot has some impressive upgrades, including two degrees of freedom in its neck, integrated electronics and wiring, and a more human-like foot shape with articulated toe sections and all Tesla-designed actuators and sensors.
The hands have also been improved, with 11 degrees of movement freedom, faster actuators, and tactile sensors on all fingers for better object manipulation. Optimus Gen 2 has improved its balance, body control, and dexterity, and it can now move more naturally and gracefully. The robot can handle delicate objects with surprising finesse, even demonstrating the ability to handle an egg without breaking it.
The latest video also features a humorous segment where Optimus mimics Musk’s dancing skills. Overall, it looks much smoother, more streamlined, and moves with better balance. However, it still has some room for improvement in its gait.
It is expected to perform various tasks for its owners, such as running errands, fetching groceries, and playing games. The announcement of Optimus has sparked a lot of excitement and interest among fans and critics alike.
