As if the cut-throat competition between humans was not enough, now we have to contend with humanoid robots as well. A few years ago, Sony's QRIO actually starred in and dubbed for a popular cartoon called "Astroboy". So, are the robotic species slowly taking over what used to be the exclusive province of humans?

Previously, only Richie Rich had Irona the robot to clean his house. Now, the idea of a robotic housemaid does not seem like such a faraway dream. The human maid might soon become a thing of the past as the man-made variety continues to perfect its tea-serving skills.

Over the years, the emphasis has shifted from robots that perform specialised functions, to those that are increasingly human. Warm technology is the catchphrase today.

For example, Honda's ASIMO runs fast (4 mph), pushes carts, manoeuvres around obstacles, and is able to identify and locate people. It can even hold your hand and walk with you. With technology like this, there might soon come a time when we look to robots for company as well!