well-informed wrote:@ S_Parc
You really think technology is going to be that far advanced in 15 years from now? i'm a little skeptical, but then again i don't know much about the growth of technology
At the moment, the most we see is a Roomba vacuum cleaner on the open market so things looks kinda crude. At this time, iRobot, maker of the Roomba, makes 80% of its revenue from defense work.
On the other hand, a lot of embedded AI is in navigation, mining sweeping, & MagLev controller systems already. Thus, a lot of actual applications are happening in less visible market spaces.
What's interesting about companion robots is that the Realdoll.com realistic love doll phenomena, which started only 10 years ago, has its own subculture in America today. As of let's say 2-3 years back, small shops have been putting actuators inside these types of dolls to give 'em hip movement, audio, etc. Thus, the low tech crowd is already beefing up their simple creations.
Thus, what started out as a concept doll is now a mini-industry, within a decade, while significant work on the software side, is happening in alternate industries. As these two halves of the coin merge, and given the sheer size of this market, a whole new industry will emerge around companion robots. The govt of Japan actually wants robots, to replace a large percent of their aging population for the workplace, while at the same time, have the 'bots also be medical assistants for the elderly, instead of granting a lot of guest visas for nurses and PAs.
I think in 15 years, the first a-ha moment will come and then, it'll be like the iPhone of today where everyone will want their own. And those who're willing to pay even more, will get something even better. It's still be like having a ~50% human but from there, the slippery slope to a complete android companion isn't all that far away.