Boston Dynamics has released a new video detailing advancements in its humanoid robot, Atlas, nearly a year after unveiling the latest version. The company highlights improvements in mobility and efficiency while explaining the transition away from the previous Atlas HD model, which relied on hydraulics.
Developers describe Atlas HD as “messy” due to expensive technology and frequent hydraulic fluid leaks. The new electric Atlas eliminates these issues, enabling smoother movement and greater flexibility.
Unlike its predecessor, which was constrained by human-like motion, the latest Atlas can perform continuous 360-degree movements and walk backward without turning.
Boston Dynamics envisions Atlas as a productive robot capable of assisting in industrial environments, including automotive manufacturing.
The company has yet to release one of its signature “fun videos” showcasing the robot’s agility, but last year’s Halloween footage depicted Atlas organizing car parts for Hyundai, its parent company.
While existing Boston Dynamics robots like Spot and Stretch are commercially available, Atlas remains in development. The company says real-world data from industrial applications is refining the robot’s capabilities, and artificial intelligence is expected to play a key role in expanding its skill set.