Humanoid ‘homebots’ are no longer science fiction – and people are already buying them. Imagine coming home to find the washing folded, the kitchen tidied and dinner almost ready, and you’ve not lifted a finger. No, you haven’t hired a housekeeper, you’ve got a homebot! And they could start appearing in our homes sooner than you think.
The NEO home robot, by AI and robotics company 1X, claims to be able to take ‘on the boring and mundane tasks around the house’, with a vast list of commands pre-programmed for everyday jobs, such as laundry, tidying up, cleaning, answering the door, taking your cup off you, loading the dishwasher, according to 1X, they can even tell jokes, answer questions and play games. The NEO home robot is available to pre-order in the US for $20,000.
The insurance industry is getting ready too, with the recent launch of the UK’s first household insurance policy specifically designed for domestic humanoid robots. Written by specialist insurance firms Adrian Flux and Tokio Marine HCC International (TMHCCI), the policy covers both the robot and the home it lives in, with details such as ‘damage to, and theft of, the robot; sudden damage it causes to the home or belongings; and personal liability if the android injures someone or damages property.’ The cover also provides ’emergency recovery or safe disablement of the humanoid following a sudden or unforeseen malfunction.’
Gerry Bucke, general manager of Adrian Flux, said: ‘Some people are terrified by the thought of having a robot in their home but for many this remains an exciting technological development. Whether it’s to do the chores they just don’t want to do, or don’t have time for, or to look after an elderly family member, there will be people who will want them.’
