The robot promises to tackle labor challenges with human-like intelligence and unparalleled dexterity
Sanctuary AI, a company dedicated to creating human-like intelligence in general-purpose robots, has unveiled its latest technological marvel – Phoenix, the sixth-generation humanoid robot. Powered by Sanctuary AI’s innovative AI control system Carbon™, Phoenix is designed to redefine the future of work in various industries, with a focus on addressing pressing labor challenges.
Geordie Rose, co-founder and CEO of Sanctuary AI, painted a vivid picture of the future, stating, “We see a future where general-purpose robots are as ubiquitous as cars, helping people to do work that needs doing, in cases where there simply aren’t enough people to do that work.”
Breaking down Phoenix’s capabilities
Phoenix stands 5’7″ tall and weighs 155 lbs, demonstrating human-like form and functionality. It is designed to move at a maximum speed of 3 mph and can carry a payload of up to 55 lbs. Perhaps the most impressive feature is its hands, which boast 20 degrees of freedom, enabling complex tasks and mimicking human dexterity.
Carbon™, the intelligence behind Phoenix
Carbon™ is the cognitive architecture that drives Phoenix. It integrates modern AI technologies to translate natural language into action, enabling Phoenix to complete tasks like a human. The system provides explainable and auditable reasoning and motion plans and utilizes deep learning and reinforcement learning for optimal performance.
Sanctuary AI’s unique vision
Sanctuary AI sets itself apart in the industry with a literal interpretation of “general-purpose.” The emphasis is on creating technology that can conduct physical work just like a human. “The robot is just a tool for the real star of the show, which in our case is our proprietary AI control system, the robot’s Carbon-based mind,” said Rose.
Commercialization
Sanctuary AI has recently announced the first commercial deployment of its technology. The company is also building an ecosystem in AI and robotics through partnerships with leading vendors and companies. Its total funding has crossed C$100 million, thanks to a C$30 million Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) contribution from the Government of Canada.
Robotic hands
The design of Phoenix’s hands underscores the importance of fine manipulation in work tasks. Hands are crucial to our interactions with the world, and by providing Phoenix with a high degree of dexterity, Sanctuary AI is well-equipped to address labor shortages and enhance workforce efficiency.
What does Phoenix mean for the future?
Phoenix’s unveiling marks a significant milestone in robotics, with it’s human-like form, unprecedented dexterity, and advanced AI. As general-purpose robots become more commonplace, we can anticipate a future where work is more efficient, labor shortages are mitigated, and opportunities for those unable to perform physical tasks are expanded. Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix heralds a new age of AI and robotics, where robots aren’t just tools, but intelligent collaborators.
