In a striking display of technological advancement, Tesla has released two new demonstration videos showcasing the latest capabilities of its humanoid robot, Optimus. The videos, which feature the robot performing a variety of dance moves, prompted a notable 3% spike in Tesla’s stock price immediately following their release. However, the excitement surrounding these performances is met with skepticism from a segment of consumers who question the practical applications of such demonstrations.
The first video, shared by CEO Elon Musk, highlights Optimus executing intricate dance routines with remarkable precision, demonstrating real-time movement without any CGI enhancements. Tesla’s lead engineer clarified that the robot, while briefly tethered for safety, is capable of maintaining balance independently. The second video, featuring an untethered performance, further emphasizes the robot’s agility and control, showcasing its ability to transition seamlessly between different dance styles.
Despite the impressive technical achievements demonstrated in these videos, critics argue that the focus on performance detracts from the practical capabilities consumers desire. Many potential customers express disappointment, asserting that a dancing robot does not justify the projected price tag in the tens of thousands of dollars. They emphasize a need for demonstrations of Optimus performing everyday tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or assisting the elderly, which would resonate more with consumers looking for practical robotic solutions.
Elon Musk has acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that while Optimus is making significant strides, it is still far from its final design. The company aims to begin deploying the robots internally by the second half of 2026, with plans for a broader rollout thereafter. As Tesla continues to refine Optimus, the expectation remains that future demonstrations will pivot toward showcasing the robot’s utility in real-world scenarios, ultimately determining its success in a market eager for practical and reliable robotic assistance.