In a remarkable shift towards automation, hospitals and businesses in the US are embracing the convenience of renting robots instead of committing to full purchases. This innovative approach allows organisations to utilise advanced robotics technology—such as the charming Moxi, a friendly delivery robot—without facing the hefty upfront costs. As the landscape of robotics evolves rapidly, the rental model is set to redefine how we interact with machines both in healthcare and beyond.
Meet Moxi: The Healthcare Hero
Across various hospitals, the four-foot tall Moxi is making waves, delivering medical supplies with a personality that is winning hearts. Created by Diligent Robotics, this one-armed robot has become a beloved member of the hospital staff. Nurses have been seen playfully greeting Moxi with high fives and even hugs, prompting the robot to respond with cheerful beeps and animated LED eyes shaped like hearts.
Todd Brugger, COO of Diligent Robotics, shares that Moxi’s popularity stems from its seamless integration into hospital workflows. “We receive abundant feedback that Moxi feels like part of the team,” he explains. The brilliance of Moxi lies not just in its functionality but also in the innovative rental model—hospitals can utilise this technology without the burden of outright ownership.
Robotics-as-a-Service: A Game Changer
The concept of robotics-as-a-service is revolutionising access to cutting-edge technology. Instead of purchasing robots, organisations can rent them, which includes service, maintenance, and regular upgrades. This subscription model is particularly beneficial as it keeps costs low and ensures that users always have access to the latest technology.
Brugger emphasises the financial advantage: “It lowers the expense and initial outlay for the hospital because you aren’t paying for the full purchase upfront.” This model allows for a more flexible response to the rapidly evolving robotics landscape.
From Moxi’s hospital deliveries to robots serving cocktails at events, the rental market is expanding. Humanoid robots, designed to mimic human behaviour and appearance, are also entering the rental fray. These machines can take on specific roles, from entertaining guests at weddings to assisting in various service sectors.
The Future of Humanoid Rentals
The evolution of humanoid robots is particularly fascinating. Companies like California’s 1X are set to introduce their home helper robot, NEO, later this year. Interested customers have the option to purchase the robot for £15,000 outright or subscribe for £378 per month. Dar Sleeper, the company’s vice president, highlights the affordability of the subscription model, making advanced robotics accessible to a broader audience.
As the technology continues to advance, the allure of rental options is clear. “Every year, robotics companies release a new model, a new iteration of the hardware,” says Ethan Qi, an associate director at Counterpoint Research. “Owning a robot means you might soon find it outdated, but renting allows you to always access the newest innovations.”
A Broadening Market
The demand for robot rentals isn’t limited to humanoids. Chicago-based Formic has over 250 industrial robots operating under a similar model, which includes maintenance and replacement services. “If the robot arm burns out, that’s on us,” states Shawn Fitzgerald, Formic’s chief revenue officer. This flat-rate model empowers smaller companies to leverage robotics technology without the financial strain of outright purchases.
Emerging payment schemes are also adapting to market needs. Some rental agreements are now tied directly to the labour savings a robot can provide, making the financial model more viable for businesses.
Internationally, Chinese firms have begun offering humanoid robots for rent in multiple countries, including the UK. Notably, Shanghai’s Agibot has expanded its reach, indicating a growing trend toward global rental offerings. However, in China, outright purchases remain prevalent, bolstered by government incentives and state-owned company orders.
Why it Matters
The increasing availability of rental robots signifies a fundamental shift in how industries can access and implement automation technologies. By lowering the financial barriers and providing flexibility, the rental model fosters innovation and allows businesses to keep pace with rapid advancements in robotics. As more organisations embrace this model, we could witness a broader transformation across sectors, enhancing efficiency and redefining human-robot interactions for the better. The future is here, and it’s robotic—are you ready to rent?