As the debate rages on about whether we are in an AI bubble, one thing remains clear: the general public’s expectations for AI are far from being met, especially in the realm of practical, everyday applications. The focus of many tech giants seems to be on creating humanoid robots that impress in demonstrations but falter in everyday utility.

A recent spectacle by Chinese robotics company EngineAI epitomizes this trend. Their humanoid T800 robot was showcased delivering a powerful kick to CEO Zhao Tongyang, mimicking a dramatic movie scene. While the demonstration may have been visually striking, it left us questioning the practicality of such technology. After all, who really needs a robot that can perform martial arts?

This incident is reminiscent of Elon Musk’s Optimus robot, which was caught being remotely controlled at an event, rather than operating autonomously as claimed. The robot’s primary function at the showcase? Mixing drinks and engaging in pseudo-conversations, hardly a breakthrough in robotic independence.

These examples highlight a significant disconnect between what tech companies think consumers want and what they actually need. A recent survey underscores this, revealing that while consumers do prefer robots that resemble humans, their priority is straightforward: they want robots that can effectively perform household chores, particularly cleaning.

This sentiment echoes my personal experience with robot vacuums like the Roomba. Despite their appeal, these devices often require frequent intervention to prevent mishaps, and they struggle with thorough cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The novelty of a pet riding a Roomba aside, the practical benefits are yet to match the human effort involved.

Human beings are capable of a wide range of activities, and while robots excel in specific tasks, they are far from replacing the versatility and adaptability of humans. The current state of AI and robotics seems to focus on niche, spectacular functions rather than addressing everyday challenges like cleaning a bathroom thoroughly and autonomously.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of AI technology, it becomes increasingly clear that the path forward should focus less on gimmicks and more on genuinely useful innovations. Perhaps, instead of designing robots that can throw a punch, we should be aiming for ones that can scrub our floors and clean our bathrooms — now that would be a knockout.