### Tesla's Optimus Robot Prototypes Controlled by Humans at Event, Reports Confirm

Recent reports have confirmed that Tesla's Optimus humanoid robots were not as autonomous as initially presented at the "We, Robot" event. Post-event analysis has revealed that while the robots could walk using artificial intelligence, many of their other actions were operated by human teleoperators.

Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources familiar with the event, reported that Tesla relied on human control for certain functionalities of the Optimus robots. Although it remains unspecified exactly which capabilities required human guidance, the robots’ walking had been independently controlled by AI. This claim was corroborated by tech blogger Robert Scoble, who spoke to an engineer at the event. The engineer confirmed that AI managed the robots' walking, but other activities, such as pouring drinks, playing games, and conversing with attendees, were human-assisted.

Social media footage from the event showed Optimus robots walking in a straight line, closely monitored by Tesla staff equipped with signaling devices. This controlled environment raised questions among observers regarding the robots' true level of independence. Videos also revealed that some robots could engage in fluid, impromptu conversations, which further suggested the presence of human assistance.

In a revealing moment captured on video, a drink-serving Optimus robot admitted to a partygoer that it was not fully autonomous, confirming the presence of human aid. Despite substantial hype around the prototypes, the extent to which they were truly autonomous was not clarified during Elon Musk's presentation. Instead, Musk emphasized the vision of a future where affordable, fully autonomous Optimus robots would be capable of numerous tasks.

The ambiguity during the event led some experts to believe in a higher level of robot autonomy than was actually the case. Gene Munster, Managing Partner at Deepwater Asset Management, admitted on social media that he was misled by the apparent autonomy of the robots, shortly after praising the event for showcasing significant AI advancements.

While Tesla’s Optimus prototypes are an impressive step forward, the journey to fully autonomous humanoid robots appears to be just beginning.