A group of leading technology firms is edging closer to producing humanoid robots on a truly industrial scale.
Tesla, with its Optimus model, along with Figure AI, Boston Dynamics and Apptronik, are among the most prominent players.
Analysts expect shipments of these robots to accelerate sharply in 2026.
As the machines become more common, engineers are experimenting with smarter ways to keep them powered.
One novel concept embeds charging coils directly into the soles of a robot's feet, so it can recharge simply by standing in the right place.
Underpinning all of this progress is the constant need for better batteries.
More capable batteries would give the robots greater strength and significantly longer working hours between charges.