In the MyData Matters blog series, MyData members introduce innovative solutions that align with MyData principles, emphasising ethical data practices, user and business empowerment, and privacy.
The future is knocking, and it’s carrying a laundry basket. We’re on the cusp of a robotics revolution, fueled by advancements in AI, augmented reality, and a relentless pursuit of “spatial intelligence.” Companies like Google, OpenAI, Niantic, Amazon, and Meta are pouring resources into developing technologies that allow machines to understand and interact with our dynamic, three-dimensional world. In this brave new world, privacy by design will be key and Athumi, the Flemish data utility company, wants to be at the center of it.
The Era of Robots is (Almost) Here:
Recent developments paint a vivid picture:
- Apple’s patent filings reveal non-humanoid robots with expressive capabilities, signaling a broader push into robotics.
- Figure AI unveiled a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model, allowing humanoid robots to learn from video and large language models.
- Clone Robotics showcased its “Protoclone” humanoid, whose unsettlingly human-like movements spark debates about the “uncanny valley.”
- Meta is building a platform for humanoid robots designed to perform household chores, with ambitions to become the “Android of androids.” They are working with companies like Unitree and Figure AI to make this a reality.
The Hardware is Just the Beginning:
Meta’s vision extends beyond hardware. They aim to create the underlying software and AI that will power a multitude of robotic devices. This “platform” approach mirrors Google’s Android model, potentially creating a dominant ecosystem for robotics.
But Is It Safe? The Privacy Dilemma:
As robots become integrated into our lives, data security and privacy concerns become paramount. Imagine:
- Renting a robot that learns your habits and home layout, raising concerns about data collection and potential misuse.
- Owning a robot with third-party software that collects and shares your data without your full awareness.
Three Potential Responses:
- Deceleration: Calls to halt AI development are unrealistic. The momentum is too strong, and the potential benefits are too significant.
- Regulation: While essential, overregulation risks stifling innovation. A balanced approach is crucial.
- Privacy by Design: This is the most promising path. Building privacy and security into the core of robotic systems ensures user control and trust. This is also a realistic path, as companies like Athumi are already exploring its potential.
Privacy by Design: Putting Users in Control:
“Privacy by design” means empowering users to control their data. Think of:
- A robot user deciding whether the robot can analyze their data, stored securely in a personal data pod.
- A medical app on a robot allowing a user to only grant temporary access to analyze a suspicious mole, with the option to use the data for further system improvements.
Athumi’s Role:
Athumi, the Flemish data utility company, champions this approach. Their platform enables secure data sharing and control, ensuring “data subjects” become “data controllers.” This commitment to “trust by design” is vital in the age of embodied intelligence.
The Future Is Choice:
The future of robotics isn’t just about technological advancement; it’s about ethical implementation. “Privacy by design” empowers users, fostering trust and ensuring that the robot revolution benefits everyone.
About Athumi:
Athumi, founded by the Flemish Government, acts as a neutral third party, enabling secure data collaborations. Managing data platforms based on open standards, Athumi serves over 6,000 companies and handles millions of data transactions.
About the author, Björn De Vidts:
Björn De Vidts, CEO of Athumi, brings extensive experience in data partnerships and stakeholder relations. His vision is to build trust and establish Athumi as a leading European data utility company.
Contact Athumi:
To learn how Athumi can help your company leverage data while prioritizing user privacy, security, and trust, please visit: https://athumi.eu/en/contact
This text is based on the original LinkedIn post by Björn De Vidts. You can read it here.