14 DAY TRIAL // The ASIMO robot from Honda is one of the few bipedal robots that can actually walk and run, but is, at the same time, proof that robotic technology is developing totally backwards compared to how things tended to go before the first flying machine was invented.
On the one hand, it can walk and run. On the other, it does it in a hilariously tight-kneed fashion and is liable to tripping and falling on its face at the slightest bump or pebble.
At least the thing can walk around without a human remote-controlling it. That's the biggest upgrade that Honda has just revealed actually, this degree of independence.
The ASIMO can also observe human behavior and predict emotions and actions, to a limited extent. Basically, if it sees you coming, it knows to move out of the way. Whether or not it does it fast enough to avoid getting kicked around will depend on the distance and how fast you walk or run.
One thing that does stand out, though, is the fact that ASIMO can communicate in sign language now. Honda specifically redesigned the hands and digits to allow for enough mobility.
