In the digital age, robotic avatars for remote living—remotely controlled “robotic bodies”—are considered a revolutionary step in expanding human capacity for living and working. Unlike simple screen-based communication, this technology allows individuals to possess a “physical presence” in another location, controlled by artificial intelligence or even directly connected to the human brain, enabling them to appear and act remotely as if they were truly there.
This idea brings many potential benefits. First, it helps expand human presence, allowing people to live in one place while experiencing life elsewhere through robotic avatars. In healthcare, doctors could examine and treat patients remotely, reducing geographical barriers and improving access to medical services. In education and research, students and scientists could participate in experiments or conferences anywhere without the need to travel. The technology also opens opportunities for entertainment and tourism, enabling users to “visit” distant or dangerous places through robotic avatars. Importantly, it offers significant support for people with disabilities, helping them engage in social activities, work, and study without being limited by their biological bodies. At the same time, robotic avatars could reduce travel costs and time, becoming a sustainable solution in the context of climate change and the need to lower emissions.
However, this technology also poses challenges. The development and maintenance costs of robotic avatars are currently very high, making them difficult to access for the general public. The reliability and safety of remote control systems must be guaranteed to prevent interruptions or cyberattacks. Psychologically, living through avatars may cause people to lose touch with direct experiences, affecting emotions and personal identity. Ethical and legal issues also arise: should a robotic avatar be considered a person’s legitimate presence? If the technology only serves the wealthy, it could create new social divisions.
Overall, robotic avatars for remote living promise to become an important step in expanding human capacity for living and working. If barriers of cost, safety, and public trust can be overcome, this technology could usher in a new era where humans are no longer limited by geography or biology. However, achieving this requires a combination of technological progress, clear legal frameworks, and human-centered values, ensuring that robotic avatars are not merely convenient tools but a means to help people connect, create, and live more meaningfully.
