Cars still can’t drive themselves everywhere a human can. Robots can’t replace every human manufacturing worker. But those stubborn facts should not distract us from the interesting and creative work being done to expand the ability of robots and drones to help humans do their jobs.

Flock Safety : In October 2024, Flock acquired Aerodome to build out a platform that combines eyes in the skies with sensors on the ground to speed up public safety responses. First, one of the company’s cameras or sensors detects a sign of a crime in progress, then a drone swoops in for a closer look while police follow. Flock’s next planned step: introducing a line of U.S.-built drones compliant with National Defense Authorization Act requirements for civil and military use.

Luminar : Lidar technology can detect pedestrians and cyclists much better than cameras, but it has usually required bulbous sensors that make vehicles look like they’re growing science experiments on their hoods or windshields. But for Volvo’s upcoming EX90, an electric SUV, Luminar has built a lidar sensor that takes the form of a trim bump on the roof—and can “see” almost a thousand feet down the road.

Full report : The three companies that will make most out of automation and robotics in 2024.