Humanoids Summit in Tokyo discusses robots as labor gap solution
The two-day Humanoids Summit in Tokyo concluded on Friday with discussions on using humanoid robots to address workforce shortages. Speakers cited declining birth rates in Japan, the United States, and globally as a driver of investment in robotics.
Japan TimesA two-day Humanoids Summit in Tokyo ended on Friday with sessions focused on physical artificial intelligence and the use of humanoid robots to address labor shortages. Brendan Schulman, vice president of policy at Massachusetts-based robotics company Boston Dynamics, addressed attendees during the event.
"In Japan … the United States … globally, we just don’t have the birth rates to sustain the workforce that we need," Schulman said.
The summit took place amid broader anticipation that robots could fill positions left open by demographic trends.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- May 29, 2026
Humanoids Summit in Tokyo concluded after two days of sessions on robotics and labor.
1 sourceJapan Times - May 28, 2026
Brendan Schulman spoke at the summit about birth rates and workforce needs.
1 sourceJapan Times
Potential Impact
- 01
Companies may increase spending on humanoid robot development to address staffing shortfalls.
Transparency Panel
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