Anushka, a humanoid robot developed in India, is a cost-effective alternative to sophisticated robots like Sophia. Anushka uses wheels for mobility and has advanced features such as computer vision, hand gestures, and natural language processing. The robot has the potential for applications in home automation, decision-making, and more.
Indian organizations have been actively developing humanoid robots in recent years, such as Manav, Shalu, and IRA. These robots encompass diverse features and functionalities, with some pilot projects not moving beyond the prototype stage. Startups like Kody Technolab and Mitra RobotIndiaPvt Ltd are focusing on AI-powered humanoid robots for various applications, including senior care companionship.
The future of humanoid robots in India looks promising, with advancements planned for Vinayak to walk on legs for enhanced social interaction. Partnerships with expertise in brain-computer interfaces aim to assist individuals with paralysis in daily tasks using robots. The global humanoid robot market is growing rapidly, with applications in healthcare, space travel, and other industries.
Challenges in developing humanoid robots include cost, energy efficiency, battery technology limitations, and security concerns. While companies like Boston Dynamics have made significant progress, there are still hurdles to overcome, particularly in terms of mimicking human muscle efficiency. Customized solutions for healthcare settings and institutional environments show promise for broader adoption of humanoid robots.
The development of Anushka faced challenges in integrating modules like computer vision and NLP, as well as learning capabilities and realistic facial movements. Collaboration with industry experts is essential for overcoming these obstacles and achieving more refined humanoid robots. Proper funding is crucial for enhancing features and capabilities, bringing Indian humanoid robots on par with global counterparts like Sophia.