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Across hospitals in the United States, a new kind of staff member is making waves—Moxi, a friendly white robot designed to transport medical supplies. This four-foot, one-armed assistant has become an endearing fixture, with nurses even exchanging greetings and high fives with it. Manufactured by Diligent Robotics, Moxi has established a niche in healthcare, but the burgeoning trend goes beyond mere service robots; it speaks to a broader movement towards robotics-as-a-service (RaaS), offering flexible rental options that are rapidly changing the landscape of automation across multiple sectors.
The Shift to Robotics-as-a-Service
Robotics-as-a-service is redefining how industries approach automation. Rather than committing substantial resources to purchase robots outright, hospitals and businesses can now opt for rental agreements that include the robot, maintenance, and ongoing upgrades. Todd Brugger, Chief Operating Officer of Diligent Robotics, explains that this model significantly reduces upfront costs for hospitals, allowing them to invest in cutting-edge technology without the financial burden of ownership. “This tech is evolving very quickly… we’re routinely evolving the software and capabilities of the robot,” he notes.
This innovative approach is not limited to healthcare. From robot bartenders to autonomous weeders for agricultural use, the RaaS model is expanding rapidly, catering to a variety of industries. Companies can rent robots for anywhere from a single day to several years, depending on their needs.
Humanoid Robots: A New Frontier
Among the most fascinating advancements in robotics are humanoid models, which strive to replicate human behaviours and aesthetics. These robots are currently being used for specific, well-defined tasks, often in entertainment or hospitality settings. For example, California-based 1X plans to introduce its home helper robot, NEO, later this year. Customers can either purchase NEO for $20,000 (£15,000) or subscribe for $499 (£378) per month, significantly lowering the barriers to entry for those interested in robotic assistance.
Dar Sleeper, 1X’s Vice President of Product and Design, asserts that while outright purchases will appeal to some, the subscription model makes robotics accessible to a wider audience. “A subscription significantly lowers the upfront cost, making it affordable for far more people,” he said.
The rapid evolution of robotics technology is a key factor in the appeal of rental models. As Ethan Qi, an associate director at Counterpoint Research, points out, “Every year, the robotics companies release a new model.” Renting allows customers to always access the latest innovations without the risk of their investment becoming obsolete.
Industrial Applications and Market Trends
While humanoid robots capture much of the public’s attention, the industrial sector is also embracing the RaaS model. Formic, a Chicago-based company, operates a fleet of over 250 industrial robots under this scheme. Shawn Fitzgerald, the company’s Chief Revenue Officer, explains that their flat monthly payment model “levels the playing field” for smaller firms that may not have the capital to invest in expensive machinery.
Emerging payment models are also gaining traction, with some companies linking rental fees directly to the labour savings achieved through automation. This not only provides a clearer return on investment but also helps to align the interests of manufacturers and clients.
The data gathered from these rental agreements offers invaluable insights for robotics companies, particularly as they continue to develop humanoid robots. “The technology is still not there. It’s still immature,” remarks Marco Wang, an analyst at Interact Analysis, highlighting the importance of real-world testing to refine these systems.
Global Trends and Implications
China has emerged as a leader in the humanoid robot market, with numerous rental schemes being launched domestically and abroad. Companies like Agibot are now offering their humanoid robots for rent in 17 countries, including the UK. However, while rental options are proliferating, Wang believes that outright purchases will remain predominant in China due to government incentives and prestige factors.
In many cases, businesses opt to buy robots outright to leverage the technology directly for their operational needs or to gain a competitive edge in their market. Nonetheless, as the robotics landscape becomes increasingly sophisticated, the convenience and affordability of rental agreements may prove to be a winning formula for many.
Why it Matters
The rise of robotics-as-a-service signifies a pivotal shift in the way businesses approach automation. By prioritising flexibility and reducing upfront costs, RaaS enables a wider array of organisations to harness the power of robotics, driving efficiency and innovation across sectors. As technology continues to evolve, the implications for industries—from healthcare to hospitality—are profound, potentially transforming the workforce and reshaping the future of work. This trend not only democratises access to advanced technology but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation in an ever-changing marketplace.
