While some robots are learning how to carefully carry boxes, Atlas from Boston Dynamics and Toyota Research Institute (TRI) has decided that he is ready for a career in the circus — he juggles tasks like a real artist, and does it with a grace that makes you wonder: isn't it time for us humans to catch up?

What happened?

Instead of thousands of lines of code, engineers uploaded Large Behavior Models (LBM) to Atlas, neural networks that learn from human demonstrations. The result? The robot now performs complex sequences of actions: He walks, crouches, manipulates objects, and even reacts to sudden disturbances — for example, if a drawer is suddenly closed or moved. And all this without a single line of new code!

How does it work?

Motion recording: An operator in a VR helmet controls the robot, and the system records every action — from turning the head to moving the fingers.

Model training: The neural network analyzes the data and creates generalized rules of behavior that allow the robot to adapt to new conditions.

Self-correction: If something goes wrong (for example, an object falls), Atlas does not panic — it just tries again, using the principles embedded in it.

Why is this a breakthrough?

Speed: It used to take months to program a single task. Now comes the hours of demonstrations.

Flexibility: One model controls all the robot's actions, from walking to fine manipulation of objects.

Reliability: Atlas learns from mistakes and becomes more resilient with each attempt.

Funny moments

In the first tests, the robot sometimes tried to "kick" the box instead of carefully lifting it — apparently, it picked up habits from grumpy colleagues in the warehouse.

When the engineers gave Atlas a surprise check (they closed the drawer right in front of him), he first thought about it, and then — with the ease of a professional spy — simply moved it and continued working.

Where will it come in handy?

Storage facilities: Atlas can sort, pack, and transport cargo without human intervention.

Rescue operations: The robot will be able to work in disaster areas where people are too dangerous.

Everyday life: In the future, such robots will be able to help around the house, for example, collecting scattered toys or pouring coffee.

What's next?

Engineers are already working to teach Atlas how to work with even more complex objects, such as cloth or ropes. And also so that he can learn not only from humans, but also from other robots.

Perhaps soon we will see how Atlas does not just perform tasks, but improvises — for example, dancing to music or playing table tennis. The main thing is not to learn to criticize our decisions.