The Jetsons had it easy. After a refreshing ultrasonic shower, old George could dial up a dinner, delivered by a fork-tongued robot maid. While Rosie's attitude may not be on the menu just yet, you might be surprised to learn how far the home robot has come in the last decade. No longer glorified toys for children, personal robots are on the looseââ,¬"and they only want to help.
Today's robots can mow the lawn, serve drinks, and vacuum the floor. Some even climb stairs and negotiate roomfuls of furniture to make your life easier.
And these mechanical servants don't just mutely multitask. Many include digital video cameras and teleconferencing technology, letting you look around the house, make sure the kids are doing their homework, and chat with the baby-sitterââ,¬"all via remote computer connection. Some robots are capable of recognising your voice or face, responding to verbal commands, and even showing "emotions."
