Robot that flinches when humans get close

Agility Robotics' new Digit 5 humanoid robot uses AI to detect and avoid human workers, even dropping to its knees when someone approaches.

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Sep 20, 2026

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Robot that flinches when humans get close

Agility Robotics' new Digit 5 humanoid robot uses AI to detect and avoid human workers, even dropping to its knees when someone approaches.

In brief

Agility Robotics' new Digit 5 humanoid robot uses AI to detect and avoid human workers, even dropping to its knees when someone approaches. As humanoid robots enter warehouses, companies are building in safety features that make robots defer to humans rather than the reverse. Originally reported by Futurism.

New robot prioritizes human safety

A screenshot of a video showing Agility Robotics' Digit 5 kneeling down.

Agility Robotics unveiled Digit 5, a humanoid robot designed to detect nearby humans and respond by moving away, stopping, or kneeling down.

Sensors and AI keep humans safe

Digit 5 uses an Nvidia Thor IGX chip and vision-based sensors to continuously monitor for human presence and take real-time action to avoid collisions.

Workplace safety concerns are real

Robots in warehouses can cause malfunctions, injuries, fires, and in extreme cases deaths. Safety features are critical as humanoid robots become common coworkers.

Digit 5 handles warehouse tasks

Digit 5 handles warehouse tasks

The robot can lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly, covering single-person lift tasks in OSHA-regulated facilities. Its 90-minute battery enables over 20 hours of work daily.

Agility already has major clients

Agility Robotics has deployed robots with Amazon and Toyota. By emphasizing safety, the company hopes to expand its commercial appeal and market reach.

The takeaway

As humanoid robots enter warehouses, companies are building in safety features that make robots defer to humans rather than the reverse.

Read the original on Futurism

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