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The growing interest in humanoid robots is driven by a combination of technological advancements and labor demands in industries with a short supply of skilled human labor. For example, sectors like automotive manufacturing require precise, labor-intensive tasks such as welding, which are often hard to execute because of skill shortages. Humanoids offer a solution by performing physically demanding or repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more complex responsibilities. Additionally, the progress in AI and ML has made humanoid robots more viable, equipping them with the cognitive abilities needed to interact effectively in human environments. In service industries, humanoid robots are gaining traction because of their potential to provide human-like interaction in customer service and healthcare roles. With AI-driven perception and decision-making, these robots can assist customers, respond to verbal commands, and even interpret emotions or body language to some extent. In healthcare, humanoid robots are already beginning to support caregiving by assisting patients with mobility and performing simple therapeutic exercises. However, designing humanoid robots to function in real-world environments introduces significant technical hurdles. One of the primary challenges is creating a robotic form that can move with the same dexterity and fluidity as that of a human. Humanoids must perform a range of movements—including walking, lifting, and rotating joints—that require precision and strength without sacrificing balance or energy efficiency. For example, actuators in humanoid robots must be both powerful and compact, allowing the robots to replicate human movements within a limited physical space. The C h a p t e r 4 | T h e Fu t u r e o f R o b o t i c s – H u m a n o i d s a n d B eyo n d The key challenges in integrating humanoid robots include improving their physical manipulation abilities, ensuring seamless collaboration with humans, and addressing energy efficiency issues to support long-term operation." Sushrut G Chief Technology Officer, Terwaskiey Robotics 22 9 Experts Discuss Robotics, AI, and ML in Industrial Applications