By Futurist Thomas Frey
Why Everyone Arguing About Robot Shape Is Asking the Wrong Question
We’re seeing intense debate about whether humanoid robots are the optimal form factor. Critics argue two arms and two legs are inefficient—why not five arms, four legs, seven fingers, or spherical units that roll? Defenders claim humanoid shapes work in human-designed environments without infrastructure changes.
Both sides miss the fundamental point: there is no one-size-fits-all robot form that’s perfect for everyone and every application. The question isn’t “what’s the best robot shape?” It’s “what’s the best robot shape for this specific task in this specific environment?”
Let me show you why form factor diversity is the actual future, not humanoid domination or any single alternative.
Continue reading… “The Humanoid Robot Debate Misses the Point: There Is No Perfect Form Factor”