I became fascinated with the technology and uses of robots after reading about the Japanese government’s interest in using robots as an assisted living labor force for its aging population. Now comes this amazing story from The Economist, which details the incredible advances in robot technology. In short, robots are working in more industries than you might think, and they’re doing much more than you might think. Be sure to check out the accompanying chart comparing labor costs of using robots versus humans. It’s an eye-opener. From the story:

Today, thanks to the relentless increase in the power of computing, the latest robots are being fitted with sophisticated systems that enable them to see, feel, move and work together. Robot engineers call this “mechatronics”: the union of mechanics, optics, electronics, computers and software. Some factory robots are now smart enough to be released from their safety cages to work among humans. And as they become cleverer and more dexterous, they are starting to move from factories to offices and homes.