Anthropic study examines robot task capabilities and cost-competitiveness

A study by Anthropic regarding the capabilities of robotics in the United States indicates that robots can currently perform 74% of physical tasks, accounting for 34% of working hours. However, the research highlights a significant gap in economic viability, noting that robots are currently cost-competitive with human workers for only 0.3% of tasks.

While some interpretations suggest that AI and robotics combined could technically perform tasks covering 81% of U.S. employment, the actual cost-efficiency remains extremely limited. The study utilized the O*NET database to analyze approximately 900 occupations and 19,000 job tasks to determine robotic feasibility.

In the broader robotics market of 2026, ultra-realistic humanoid robots are becoming increasingly available for purchase. These machines, such as those developed by Realbotix, utilize AI, computer vision, and advanced motion control to mimic human features and interactions. These robots serve various sectors, including industrial research, entertainment, and companionship, though their availability varies by region and intended use.