this post was submitted on 20 Feb 2026
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The sad thing about the advancement of pretty much all robotics is that their ability is quickly outpacing their functional utility. I work in orthotics and prosthetics and we ran into these issues years ago with advanced powered limbs.
Pretty much all mobile tech is currently limited by current battery technology, especially when you are dealing with anything with moderate weight in motion. We have really impressive limbs that can do a lot, but only for a short period of time.
You end up running into a diminishing returns scenario with today's battery with weight vs capacity. These robots are really cool, but only have a two hour charge with a battery that takes around the same time to recharge.
Good thing China is also at the forefront of pushing battery tech forward too.
I'd be excited about anyone making a real breakthrough, we've been making slight improvements throughout the year, but any kind of game changing battery always seems to be 5 years away. I think we may be reaching the point where we might not see too many upgrades in energy density with lith-ion.
The difference being though that a humanoid robot can potentially replace its own battery. Several methods have already been demonstrated. I don't think power restrictions is what is keeping humanoid robots from being used in the field right now.
plus with prosthetics carrying the weight is no small ask, my understanding is that a lot of people go back to more simple prosthetics after giving the advanced ones a try (unless that's changed?)
No, that's still more common than not. The powered limbs take a lot of concentration to utilize to their full capabilities and they typically require you to lug around a heavy battery that doesn't last very long.
You would be surprised how much dexterity someone has with the old style cable and harness upper limb prosthetics with just the traditional hooked terminal end.