The Future of Home Anthropomorphic Technology: A Foresight Session with iFORA

Abstract

In recent years, society and researchers have increasingly discussed the development of artificial intelligence and its transition into anthropomorphic robots. The Internet of Things and the Internet of Everything have been part of our lives for decades: robot vacuum cleaners, window-cleaning robots, and robotic toys are already common. Yet the future and interaction of anthropomorphic technology in the home remain open. Will it be simply an assistant with limited network access, or a networked helper that informs neighbours about its presence? Is it a device or a new habit and lifestyle? This foresight session invites participants to focus on a vision of future home anthropomorphic technology, from algorithmic design to energy aspects, and on the barriers that must be overcome for its further development, including regulatory, industrial, and social barriers. Based on a semantic map of robotics and AI trends prepared using the iFORA system, several teams will work on different aspects of home anthropomorphic technology and identify barriers and ways to overcome them over a 5–7 year horizon. Special attention will be given to the sufficiency and interaction of generative AI, energy, communication technologies, and human-centred approaches to the functioning of home anthropomorphic technology.