The announcement was made through a video presentation shared by Musk on his X account on December 13th. The video showcases the impressive capabilities of Optimus Gen 2 and highlights its significant improvements over the previous versions.
One of the standout features of the new robot is its reduced weight. Optimus Gen 2 is 22 pounds lighter than its predecessor, making it more agile and maneuverable. Additionally, the foot construction of the robot closely replicates human anatomy, enhancing its balance and overall body control. In the video, Optimus Gen 2 demonstrates its stable movements by executing a series of squats with ease.
The advancements in tactile sensing technology have also made their way into the new prototype. Optimus Gen 2 boasts tactile sensing on all fingers, enabling it to manipulate delicate objects with precision. The video showcases the robot picking up an egg effortlessly, showcasing its ability to handle fragile items with care and finesse.
The journey to the development of Optimus Gen 2 has not been without its challenges. The original Optimus prototype, introduced by Tesla in 2022, struggled with basic movements and revealed its inner mechanics. Another version required assistance from staff to maintain an upright position. However, Musk remained committed to continuous improvement, as shown in a video published in the spring of 2023 featuring the next generation of Tesla-made bots walking freely and efficiently performing tasks like object retrieval and transfer.
Musk’s enthusiasm for artificial intelligence (AI) is no secret. He has repeatedly emphasized the need for increased regulatory oversight of AI, expressing concerns that it could surpass human intelligence in the not-so-distant future. In December, Musk even mentioned the concept of a “digital god,” suggesting that it could render copyright lawsuits related to AI irrelevant.
While Musk’s predictions about the arrival of artificial general intelligence before 2030 have been met with skepticism from industry experts, his relentless pursuit of technological advancements continues to push boundaries and excite enthusiasts worldwide.
With Optimus Gen 2, Musk and Tesla have once again demonstrated their commitment to innovation and robotics, bringing us closer to a future where intelligent machines like Optimus could play a significant role in various industries and daily tasks.
