"Boston Dynamics Introduces Hairy, Pixar-Lamp-Like Atlas Robot for Real-World Use"

Boston Dynamics unveiled a new version of its Atlas robot with unsettling movements, prompting a suggestion to give the robot hair to make it less creepy. Research on the uncanny valley suggests that adding hair to humanoid robots may not necessarily alleviate discomfort caused by inhuman movements. While some studies show that fur may enhance perceived warmth, others indicate that partially furred robots may have an "uncanine" effect. The suggestion highlights the potential for hair to inspire affinity with robots, but the key to overcoming the uncanny valley lies in addressing inhuman movement rather than appearance.