We talk about robots as a kind of future technology. But we’re surrounded by them every day.

The world of robots is big (so bear with me here); it includes consumer camera drones, smart thermostats, automated garage door openers, self-checkout kiosks, modern washing machines and dryers, robotic lawnmowers, automated pool cleaners, smart refrigerators, advanced coffee makers, automated pet feeders, and smart lighting systems.

There are robot vacuum cleaners, automated window blinds, automated dishwashers, smart ovens, self-service airport check-in kiosks, ATMs, advanced vending machines, adaptive traffic light systems, automated parking garage systems, modern HVAC systems, self-service library checkout systems, smart doorbells, advanced prosthetic limbs, automated subway or train systems, self-service bike rental kiosks, automated car washes, smart toilets, automated pill dispensers, modern pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, automated milking machines, self-balancing electric scooters, automated baggage handling systems, smart power grids, automated trading algorithms, and even modern hearing aids.