NVIDIA's CES 2023 keynote was a watershed moment for humanoid robots, with top players in the field flanking CEO Jensen Huang on stage. Among them was Agility's Digit, a bipedal robot that made a notable return after its initial appearance at CES 2020 as part of Ford's showcase.

Beyond the main stage, a miniature conveyer belt at a closed-access NVIDIA booth featured Agility's Digit, demonstrating its capabilities in a factory setting. However, it was not the only humanoid robot to make an impact at the show. Smaller companies, with the exception of Apptronik, also showcased their humanoid robots, highlighting the growing interest in this area of robotics.

Apptronik's Apollo robot, in particular, caught attention with its unique design. Unlike many of its competitors, Apollo boasts a bright and cartoony aesthetic, complete with big eyes and a head shape reminiscent of early iMacs. This refreshing design approach sets it apart from the typical dark and sterile humanoid robots often seen in industrial settings.

Apollo's smooth movements and ability to ham it up for the camera during a pick-and-place demo were impressive, but it's essential to note that this was a limited demonstration for show purposes only. The actual intelligent, autonomous version of the robot is set to be deployed in factories, where it will focus on factory work.

Apptronik has already begun factory pilots with Mercedes, following similar deals between Figure and BMW, and Agility and Amazon. This growing trend of humanoid robots being integrated into industrial settings marks a significant shift in the way factories operate, with the potential to increase efficiency and productivity.

The advancements in humanoid robots showcased at CES 2023 demonstrate the industry's progress in developing robots that can effectively work alongside humans in various settings. As these robots become more sophisticated and adaptable, we can expect to see even more widespread adoption in the years to come.

In conclusion, NVIDIA's CES 2023 keynote served as a catalyst for the humanoid robot industry, highlighting the innovative designs and capabilities of companies like Agility and Apptronik. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how these robots shape the future of factory work and beyond.