Articles tagged with "automation"
Boeing turning Cold War-era Chinook into autonomous heavy-lift robot
Boeing is modernizing the Cold War-era CH-47 Chinook helicopter to extend its operational relevance into the 2060s by integrating advanced automation and autonomy technologies. The CH-47F Block II upgrade enhances lift capacity, range, and cockpit features, building on the helicopter’s long-standing reputation for reliability and heavy-lift capability since its induction in 1962. Boeing’s efforts focus on reducing pilot workload, improving safety, and lowering maintenance and training costs through supervised autonomy, which allows the aircraft to operate effectively in complex and contested environments. Central to this modernization is the development of the Active Parallel Actuator Subsystem (APAS), a next-generation control system that functions similarly to automotive “lane assist.” APAS helps pilots maintain aircraft performance limits while enabling dynamic maneuverability and greater flexibility in unpredictable conditions. Boeing envisions future versions of APAS supporting varying levels of autonomous operation, potentially allowing the Chinook to conduct certain missions with minimal or no pilot input. The company emphasizes close collaboration
robotautonomous-systemsheavy-lift-helicopterBoeingmilitary-technologyautomationflight-control-systemsYour guide to Day 2 of RoboBusiness 2025 - The Robot Report
RoboBusiness 2025’s second day at the Santa Clara Convention Center features a robust agenda with over 60 speakers, a startup workshop, the annual Pitchfire competition, and more than 100 exhibitors. The day begins at 10:00 a.m. PT with the first keynote and the opening of the show floor, which includes the Engineering Theater, networking lounge, Startup Showcase, MassRobotics Startup Alley, and the KAIST Korean Pavilion. The initial keynote panel, moderated by Eugene Demaitre of The Robot Report, features industry leaders such as Sanjay Aggarwal (F-Prime), Jon Battles (Cobot), Amit Goel (NVIDIA), and Brian Gaunt (DHL Supply Chain), discussing the current state of the robotics industry. This is followed by a panel on “Closing the Robotics Gap With China,” involving Jeff Burnstein (A3), Georg Stieler (Stieler Technology & Market Advisory), and Eric Truebenbach (Teradyne Robotics),
roboticsAIautomationrobotics-industryrobotics-manufacturingautonomous-machinesrobotics-innovationJapanese firm unveils bathtub that promises full-body spa everyday
Japanese bathroom fixture manufacturer Science Co. has unveiled the "Human Washer in the Future" (Mirai Ningen Sentakuki), a fully automated, hands-free bathing system designed to transform showering into a spa-like experience. Displayed at the 2025 Osaka Expo, the device resembles a sleek, oversized bathtub with a canopy that encloses the user. Once inside, the user reclines as warm, soapy water fills the tub to chest level, while calming nature visuals and sounds play on a built-in display. The process, lasting a few minutes, is controlled by precision sensors that maintain optimal water temperature (around 100°F/38°C) and flow, with intelligent water recycling to promote sustainability. The Human Washer emphasizes convenience, relaxation, and accessibility, rooted in Japan’s traditional bathing culture that values hygiene and wellness. Science Co. envisions future versions incorporating AI personalization for temperature, scent, and sound preferences. Inspired by a similar concept introduced by Sanyo Electric Co. at the
IoTautomationsmart-bathroomsensor-technologywater-recyclingAI-personalizationsustainable-designSurgical robots take center stage at DeviceTalks West, RoboBusiness - The Robot Report
The article highlights the prominence of surgical robotics at the upcoming DeviceTalks West and RoboBusiness events, held concurrently at the Santa Clara Convention Center on October 15-16. Surgical robots, recognized as a leading application of robotics and AI in healthcare, will be the focus of multiple sessions covering topics such as intellectual property protection, modern surgical robot suites, and the evolution from teleoperation to autonomous humanoid surgical robots. Notably, Intuitive Surgical’s senior VP Iman Jeddi will deliver a keynote on the redesign and launch of the da Vinci 5 system, underscoring ongoing innovation in this field. RoboBusiness 2025 emphasizes the development and commercialization of automation technologies, featuring tracks on design, enabling technologies, AI, and robotics, alongside networking opportunities and a Pitchfire competition. DeviceTalks West will convene top engineers, executives, and innovators to discuss advances in surgical robotics and digital surgery, including new clinical therapies like neurovascular treatment and expanded use in ambulatory surgery centers.
roboticssurgical-robotsmedical-technologyhealthcare-roboticsrobotic-surgeryautomationartificial-intelligence'World’s most advanced construction robot' completes factory tests
FBR Limited has successfully completed factory acceptance testing of its upgraded Hadrian bricklaying robot in Western Australia. The Hadrian robot is a mobile system mounted on a cab-over-engine truck, designed for easy transport to construction sites. It demonstrated improved reliability and accuracy by laying over 285 blocks per hour during tests, with a peak capacity of up to 360 blocks per hour. The robot features proprietary software that converts wall designs into precise block placements, reducing material waste, and employs dynamic stabilization technology to maintain accuracy despite movement or outdoor conditions. It can handle blocks weighing up to 99 pounds and reach up to 105 feet, operating efficiently with just two personnel. The Hadrian robot is built to withstand harsh weather, including winds up to 37.3 mph and light rain, using Fastbrick Adhesive for bonding. It is suitable for a variety of construction projects, from residential homes and townhouses to commercial buildings and childcare centers. FBR plans to offer the robot to select construction partners at
robotconstruction-robotbricklaying-robotautomationconstruction-technologyrobotics-in-constructionbuilding-automationHow machine vision is enhancing automation safety and efficiency - The Robot Report
The article explains how machine vision technologies enhance automation safety and efficiency by enabling automated systems to interpret and understand their environments through image analysis. Machine vision involves extracting meaningful information from images—not limited to visible light but also including infrared, laser, X-ray, and ultrasound imaging. This capability allows robots and automated equipment to identify and manipulate objects in complex settings, such as picking specific parts from a bin with randomly arranged items, regardless of their orientation or distance from the camera. Advanced machine vision systems also support 3D scanning and modeling, which can be used for applications like 3D printing. The article distinguishes machine vision from computer vision, noting that machine vision typically refers to established, efficient mathematical methods for image analysis, while computer vision often involves more computationally intensive approaches, including AI and machine learning. However, the terms can overlap in practice. Key techniques in machine vision include digital image processing (enhancement, restoration, compression), photogrammetry (extracting measurements and 3D information from images),
robotmachine-visionautomationindustrial-roboticscomputer-visionAI3D-scanningThe world is just not quite ready for humanoids yet
The article highlights skepticism from experts about the current state and near-term prospects of humanoid robots, despite significant investment and hype in the sector. Rodney Brooks, a renowned roboticist and iRobot founder, warns of an investment bubble, emphasizing that humanoids still lack the dexterity and fine motor skills necessary for practical use. Other AI and robotics experts echo this caution, noting that widespread adoption of humanoid robots is unlikely for several years, if not over a decade. Fady Saad, a robotics-focused venture capitalist, points out limited market opportunities beyond niche applications like space exploration and raises serious safety concerns about humanoids operating alongside humans, especially in homes. The timeline for achieving functional, commercially viable humanoid robots remains uncertain, complicating investment decisions given venture capital fund lifecycles. Nvidia’s AI research leaders compare the current enthusiasm for humanoids to early excitement around self-driving cars, which have yet to achieve full global scalability despite years of development. The complexity of humanoid robotics—such as managing
roboticshumanoid-robotsartificial-intelligencerobotics-investmentrobot-safetyautomationrobotics-technologyFigure 03 robot tackles household chores with realistic motion
Figure AI has introduced its third-generation humanoid robot, Figure 03, designed to perform household and warehouse tasks with enhanced realism and efficiency. Standing five-foot-six, Figure 03 improves on its predecessor with advanced sensory systems, including cameras that process twice as many frames per second and offer a 60% wider field of view, enabling smoother navigation in complex environments. Each hand features a palm camera and highly sensitive fingertip sensors capable of detecting minimal pressure, allowing delicate handling of objects like glassware. The robot is lighter, smaller, and covered in washable mesh fabric with foam padding for safety, and it supports wireless charging through coils in its feet, providing about five hours of operation per full charge. The robot’s AI, named Helix, integrates vision, language, and movement to learn from human behavior, while upgraded actuators deliver faster, more powerful motion suitable for tasks such as sorting parts and packaging. Audio improvements include a louder speaker and clearer microphone placement, facilitating natural communication without distortion. Figure
robothumanoid-robotAIroboticswireless-chargingsensorsautomationTesla Optimus Plans Evaporated - CleanTechnica
Tesla has reportedly abandoned its ambitious plan to deploy 10,000 Optimus robots internally by the end of 2023, a target previously announced by Elon Musk during an investor call earlier this year. According to reporting from The Information, these plans were scrapped over the summer, and the promise that the robots would be “doing useful things by the end of the year” appears unlikely to be fulfilled. Instead, Musk may showcase a “dancing troupe” of Optimus bots at Tesla’s upcoming annual meeting, which some interpret as more of a publicity stunt than evidence of practical progress. This development fits a broader pattern observed by industry watchers, where Musk tends to make bold claims when facing setbacks, sometimes doubling down on optimistic projections despite missed deadlines or unfulfilled promises. For example, Musk has suggested that Optimus could eventually represent 80% of Tesla’s value, a statement viewed skeptically given the current lack of tangible results. Meanwhile, the global robotics landscape is evolving rapidly, with China leading
roboticsTesla-Optimushumanoid-robotsautomationrobotics-industryindustrial-roboticsrobot-patentsLucid Bots brings embodied AI to commercial painting - The Robot Report
Lucid Bots Inc., a Charlotte-based robotics company founded in 2018, has introduced new painting and coating capabilities for its Sherpa Drone, originally designed for exterior building cleaning. The drone uses a power tether to stay aloft while lifting a hose from the ground to supply water or paint, with the paint reservoir remaining on the ground. The system features automation-assisted controls such as “Distance Lock,” which uses onboard sensors to maintain the optimal distance and angle between the spray nozzle and the surface, ensuring consistent coverage and minimizing overspray. The drone’s design also incorporates military-grade nano-coatings to prevent paint from adhering to its surface, facilitating easy cleanup. Lucid Bots aims to address the growing demand for automation in large-scale commercial and industrial infrastructure projects amid significant labor shortages and safety concerns in construction. With over 40% of construction workers expected to retire by 2031, the company leverages embodied AI—robots capable of navigating and manipulating the physical world—to perform dangerous and demanding tasks like painting
roboticsdronesembodied-AIautomationcommercial-paintingindustrial-robotsinfrastructure-maintenanceSoftBank bulks up its robotics portfolio with ABB Group’s robotics unit
Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group is expanding its robotics portfolio by acquiring ABB Group’s robotics business unit based in Zurich for $5.375 billion. The deal, expected to close by mid-to-late 2026 pending regulatory approval, involves ABB’s robotics division which employs around 7,000 people and generated $2.3 billion in revenue in 2024, accounting for 7% of ABB’s total revenue. ABB’s robotics unit offers a range of robots for tasks such as picking, cleaning, and painting. Following the acquisition, Sami Atiya, the division head, will leave the company. SoftBank aims to revitalize the robotics spinoff, whose revenue declined from $2.5 billion in 2023 to $2.3 billion in 2024. SoftBank has been steadily increasing its investments in robotics, including stakes in established companies like AutoStore and startups such as Skild AI and Agile Robots, alongside launching its own SoftBank Robotics Group in 2014
roboticsSoftBankABB-Groupartificial-intelligencephysical-AIrobotics-acquisitionautomationPI releases high dynamics linear motor stage family - The Robot Report
PI Physik Instrumente L.P. has introduced the V-573 family, a new series of high-dynamics linear motor stages designed for ultra-precise positioning in research and industrial applications. Manufactured in the U.S., these stages feature frictionless three-phase linear motors, crossed roller bearings for high stiffness and smooth operation, and offer specifications such as up to 360mm travel, 1nm absolute encoder resolution, 80nm bidirectional repeatability, and velocities up to 500mm/sec with 1g acceleration. The design emphasizes precision with straightness and flatness values as low as 1µm, and includes an anti-creep mechanism to enhance reliability. The stages integrate with PI’s ACS-based EtherCAT motion controllers, enabling optimized system performance through advanced algorithms. The V-573 stages are suitable for a broad range of industries including semiconductor manufacturing (nano-lithography, wafer inspection, metrology), silicon photonics, quantum computing, industrial automation, microscopy, and life sciences
robotautomationlinear-motorprecision-motionsemiconductor-manufacturingindustrial-automationmotion-controlMeet the AI tool that thinks like a mechancial engineer
The article introduces the bananaz Design Agent, an AI-powered tool specifically developed for mechanical engineers to streamline design and manufacturing processes. Unlike generic AI chatbots, this agent comprehends mechanical logic, CAD files, engineering standards, and company-specific best practices. Founded in 2023 by experienced mechanical engineers, bananaz aims to reduce design errors and accelerate innovation across industries such as medical devices, aerospace, automotive, and oil & gas. The Design Agent uses advanced computer vision and specialized algorithms to analyze 3D geometries, annotations, assembly hierarchies, material specs, tolerances, and team communication, providing a comprehensive understanding of engineering designs. A key feature of the Design Agent is its context-aware analysis, allowing it to understand how individual design decisions affect the entire assembly and manufacturing outcomes. It maintains full project context, leveraging past work and collective design history to offer precise, relevant recommendations. Users can interact with their designs in plain language, asking questions about design-for-manufacturing (DF
robotAImechanical-engineeringCADmanufacturingautomationdesign-optimizationSolving the labor crisis: How community colleges fuel the robotics workforce - The Robot Report
The article highlights the critical role community colleges play in addressing the skilled labor shortage in the robotics and automation industry. Unlike the common perception that four-year degrees are essential for high-tech careers, community colleges provide accessible, affordable, and targeted education for technicians who assemble, test, install, and maintain robots and automated machinery. Sierra College in Rocklin, California, serves as a prime example, offering mechatronics programs that combine electronics, mechanical theory, and hands-on lab experience to prepare students for well-paying, in-demand jobs. The college actively adapts its curriculum based on industry needs, such as scaling back automotive technician training to focus on essential skills aligned with local employer requirements. Local high-tech companies like Bosch have supported Sierra College by funding curriculum development in areas like high-voltage electronics and circuit design, ensuring students gain relevant skills such as PLC ladder logic and robot programming. The program benefits from strong industry partnerships, with companies participating in advisory committees to shape course content. The college’s acquisition of industrial robots
roboticsworkforce-developmentmechatronicsautomationSTEM-educationskilled-laborcommunity-collegesAI robots speed up installation of 500,000 solar panels in Australia
An Australian electricity and gas provider, ENGIE, is using AI-powered autonomous robots developed by US company Luminous Robotics to install nearly 500,000 solar panels at the 250-megawatt Goorambat East Solar Farm in Victoria. The LUMI S4 robots employ AI-driven pick-and-place technology to lift and position solar modules onto racking structures, reducing the physically demanding manual labor involved in solar farm construction. This robotic assistance enhances installation speed, improves worker safety by minimizing injury risks, and allows human crews to focus on skilled tasks. The project is ahead of schedule, with first energization expected by October 2025 and full operation targeted for mid-2026, supplying power to over 100,000 homes. Funded in part by a USD 4.9 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of its Solar ScaleUp Challenge, the deployment marks Luminous Robotics’ first international use of the LUMI fleet. The company
roboticssolar-energyAI-robotsrenewable-energysolar-panel-installationautomationclean-energy-technologyFesto Didactic celebrates Manufacturing Day, dedicates efforts to workforce development - The Robot Report
Festo Didactic, the vocational and technical training division of global automation company Festo SE, is celebrating its 100th anniversary alongside National Manufacturing Day, which launches Manufacturing Month in the U.S. Manufacturing Day, organized by the Manufacturing Institute, highlights modern factories and production technologies while promoting STEM education and addressing skilled labor shortages through events and job fairs. Ted Rozier, director of digital, advanced technology, and robotics at Festo Didactic, emphasized the company’s century-long innovation and its broad involvement in areas such as digitization and workforce development. Rozier discussed the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in manufacturing, noting the importance of using AI thoughtfully to enhance production processes rather than viewing it as a threat. He highlighted the need for education around data classification, predictive maintenance, and the integration of AI tools to empower technicians and operators—currently among the most in-demand manufacturing roles—to make better decisions and improve efficiency. On workforce development, Rozier stressed the importance of teaching practical skills across educational
roboticsmanufacturingworkforce-developmentAI-in-manufacturingautomationindustrial-roboticsSTEM-educationCone Drive adds cycloidal gearing technology to its robotics lineup - The Robot Report
Cone Drive has expanded its motion control product line by adding a cycloidal gearing series designed to meet the high performance and durability requirements of modern robotics and automation. The company highlights that cycloidal gears, specifically from the Spinea range, offer precision, compactness, and high torque transmission, making them ideal for robotic systems that demand low backlash, high positioning accuracy, and long service life. These gears distribute torque across multiple contact points, resulting in excellent shock load resistance and quiet, vibration-free operation. The new cycloidal gearing lineup from Cone Drive includes various configurations such as inline and right-angle variants, hollow-shaft and solid-shaft options, and a broad range of gear ratios, allowing for easy integration into both OEM and custom systems. Cone Drive supports this product line globally through its network of technical specialists, providing application assistance, rapid prototyping, and customization services across North America, Europe, and Asia. As a Timken unit with over a century of experience, Cone Drive offers a comprehensive portfolio of
roboticscycloidal-gearingmotion-controlindustrial-robotsautomationprecision-engineeringtorque-transmissionMassRobotics opens Cohort 5 applications for Healthcare Robotics Startup Catalyst - The Robot Report
MassRobotics has opened applications for Cohort 5 of its Healthcare Robotics Startup Catalyst Program, a five-month, non-equity initiative aimed at accelerating clinical readiness, technical validation, and go-to-market strategies for robotics and automation startups in healthcare and life sciences. The program runs from January to May 2026 and culminates in a showcase at the Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston. Startups working on a broad range of healthcare robotics—including laboratory automation, diagnostics, surgical robotics, rehabilitation devices, and enabling technologies—are encouraged to apply by the December 1, 2025 deadline. The program welcomes global teams at various stages, from seed funding to Series C. Cohort 5 will benefit from an expanded Medical Advisory Board featuring experts from Mass General Brigham and others, enhancing support in perioperative care, patient safety, and clinical workflow integration. Selected startups receive tailored mentorship from senior leaders at companies such as Festo, Novanta, Mitsubishi Electric Automation, MITRE, and yax
roboticshealthcare-roboticsstartup-acceleratorautomationAI-enabled-robotsclinical-technologyrobotics-summitFormer OpenAI and DeepMind researchers raise whopping $300M seed to automate science
Periodic Labs, a new startup founded by former OpenAI and DeepMind researchers Ekin Dogus Cubuk and Liam Fedus, has emerged from stealth with an unprecedented $300 million seed funding round. Backed by prominent investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Nvidia, Jeff Dean, Eric Schmidt, and Jeff Bezos, the company aims to revolutionize scientific discovery by creating AI-driven autonomous laboratories. These labs will use robots to conduct physical experiments, collect data, and iteratively improve their processes, effectively building "AI scientists" that can accelerate the invention of new materials. The initial focus of Periodic Labs is to develop novel superconductors that outperform current materials and potentially require less energy. Beyond superconductors, the startup intends to discover a variety of new materials while simultaneously generating fresh physical-world data to feed back into AI models, addressing the limitations of existing models trained primarily on internet data. This approach marks a shift toward integrating AI with hands-on experimentation to push the boundaries of scientific research. Although Periodic Labs
robotAImaterials-scienceenergyautomationscientific-discoverysuperconductorsGlobant invests in InOrbit Series A to advance robot orchestration - The Robot Report
InOrbit Inc., a Mountain View-based company specializing in AI-powered robot operations (RobOps) software, has closed its Series A funding round led by Globant and other investors. The capital will be used to accelerate platform development and expand InOrbit’s presence in key industries such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, and hospitality. InOrbit aims to address challenges like labor shortages and supply chain risks by providing a robot orchestration platform that integrates robots, human workers, and AI agents. The company’s software acts as a “central nervous system” for robot fleets, enabling autonomous decision-making and adaptive responses in real-world environments, with customers including Colgate-Palmolive and Genentech. The partnership between InOrbit and Globant builds on their previous collaboration, with Globant integrating InOrbit’s RobOps software into its Robotics Studio and offering it as part of its digital transformation services. Globant emphasizes that InOrbit’s platform complements existing enterprise systems such as WMS and ERP, enhancing orchestration of diverse
robotroboticsAIautomationrobot-orchestrationenterprise-softwareautonomous-robotsKollmorgen offers pre-configured Essentials motion system - The Robot Report
Kollmorgen has launched the Essentials motion system, a pre-configured line of servo motion systems aimed at simplifying high-performance motion control across various industrial applications such as packaging, warehouse automation, material handling, and forming. These systems combine an optimally matched servo drive, servo motor with integrated absolute multi-turn feedback, and a combined power/data cable, designed to reduce engineering time and overall system costs. The Essentials family supports multiple onboard communication protocols—including EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and PROFINET—allowing seamless integration into common controller environments and existing PLC setups. Kollmorgen emphasizes ease of installation and commissioning, featuring an Express Setup tool within its WorkBench software to assist engineers, even those with limited motion experience. The Essentials servo drives offer continuous power up to 4,000 watts and support supply voltages from 120–240 or 240–480 VAC. They include functional safety features such as integrated dual-channel STO with SIL2/Cat 3 PLd certification. The servo motors cover
robotautomationmotion-controlservo-systemsindustrial-roboticsAGV-controlEtherCATIt's time to recreate China's robotics strategy in the U.S. - The Robot Report
The article highlights the urgent need for the U.S. to develop a comprehensive national robotics strategy to compete effectively with China, particularly in manufacturing and automation. While China has already established a dominant position in sectors like electric vehicles—creating major companies such as CATL and BYD and improving urban air quality—the U.S. lags behind due to labor shortages and slower adoption of advanced robotics. With the manufacturing sector facing a projected shortfall of 2.1 million workers by 2033, the article argues that automation and robotics are essential for maintaining global competitiveness and driving domestic industrial growth. Significant private investment in robotics startups, fueled by advances in AI and computer vision, is positioning the U.S. to potentially leap forward in automation capabilities, enabling robots to perform increasingly complex tasks autonomously. However, the article stresses that without a unified national strategy, the U.S. risks missing a critical technological inflection point. Beyond economic benefits, robotics also offers substantial environmental advantages by improving resource efficiency and supporting climate
roboticsautomationmanufacturingindustrial-robotsAI-in-roboticsU.S.-manufacturingrobotics-strategyABB Robotics adds generative AI assistant to RobotStudio Suite - The Robot Report
ABB Robotics has integrated a generative AI assistant into its RobotStudio Suite to enhance robot programming by providing real-time, step-by-step guidance. This AI Assistant leverages a large language model (LLM) that interprets human language and draws from ABB’s extensive manuals and documentation to deliver context-rich responses. The feature aims to make robot programming faster, easier, and more accessible, particularly benefiting less experienced users and helping experts address technical challenges more efficiently. ABB emphasizes that this addition addresses the growing demand for AI in robotics driven by the need for greater flexibility, faster commissioning, and a shortage of specialist programming skills. By improving accessibility, ABB hopes to support smaller businesses and emerging sectors that often lack robotic automation expertise. The AI Assistant is integrated into RobotStudio’s cloud-hosted offline programming environment, serving as an effective training tool for students and early-career professionals. RobotStudio itself is a collaborative robot programming and simulation platform with features like automatic path planning to optimize productivity and reduce energy use. The AI Assistant
roboticsgenerative-AIrobot-programmingindustrial-robotsautonomous-mobile-robotsautomationAI-assistantWhat Tesla’s Optimus robot can do in 2025 and where it still lags
Tesla aims to produce 5,000 Optimus humanoid robots by 2025, positioning the robot as central to its future under the vision of integrating AI into the physical world. CEO Elon Musk has claimed that 80% of Tesla’s future value will derive from Optimus and related AI ventures, signaling a shift from purely an automaker to a “physical AI” platform. Demonstrations through 2024 and 2025 have shown Optimus performing basic locomotion with improved heel-to-toe walking, simple household chores like sweeping and trash removal, and basic manipulation tasks such as handling car parts. These capabilities are enabled by a unified control policy—a single neural network trained using vision-based inputs and human video data—which Tesla highlights as a scalable approach to skill acquisition. However, Optimus’s current functionality is largely limited to structured or lightly staged environments with known objects and controlled lighting, lacking robust autonomy in unstructured homes or fully operational industrial settings. While the robot shows smoother full-body coordination and
robothumanoid-robotTesla-OptimusAI-roboticsautomationneural-networksrobotics-developmentChina adds more robots than US, Japan, Germany and Korea combined
China has significantly outpaced other leading industrial nations in the adoption of factory robots, installing nearly 300,000 new units last year alone and bringing its total to over 2 million robots in operation. This surge positions China as the world’s largest user of industrial robots, surpassing the combined installations of the US, Japan, Germany, and South Korea. The rapid growth is largely attributed to the Chinese government’s strategic initiatives, including the Made in China 2025 campaign launched in 2015, which aims to reduce reliance on imports and boost domestic manufacturing capabilities in robotics, semiconductors, and AI. Government support through low-interest loans, subsidies, and assistance in acquiring foreign companies has been pivotal in this expansion. China’s factories now produce about one-third of global manufactured goods, outstripping the combined output of several major economies. Since 2017, Chinese factories have consistently installed over 150,000 robots annually, with a recent shift toward domestically produced robots accounting for 60%
robotsautomationmanufacturingChinaindustrial-robotsrobotics-industryfactory-automationIFR: industrial robot deployments have doubled in 10 years
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) reported that industrial robot installations worldwide reached 542,000 units in 2024, more than doubling the number from a decade ago. This marks the fourth consecutive year with over 500,000 units installed annually, with Asia dominating 74% of new deployments, followed by Europe at 16% and the Americas at 9%. The total operational stock of industrial robots globally increased by 9% to 4.66 million units in 2024, reflecting strong ongoing demand driven by industries transitioning to digital and automated processes. China remains the largest robotics market, accounting for 54% of global installations with a record 295,000 units installed in 2024. Notably, Chinese manufacturers now hold a majority domestic market share of 57%, up from 28% a decade ago, and the country’s operational robot stock surpassed 2 million units. Other Asian markets also show significant activity: Japan installed 44,500 units (a slight
industrial-robotsrobotics-marketautomationmanufacturing-technologyChina-roboticsrobot-deploymentindustrial-automationAMP Robotics acquires Portsmouth recycling operations from RDS of Virginia - The Robot Report
AMP Robotics Corp., a developer of AI-powered robotic sorting technology for waste and recycling, has acquired the Portsmouth recycling operations of RDS of Virginia LLC, which has served South Hampton Roads since 2005. Since late 2023, AMP has operated its AMP ONE system at the Portsmouth facility, autonomously processing up to 150 tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) daily with over 90% uptime. The system separates recyclables and organic materials from bagged trash, enabling the facility to divert more than 50% of landfill-bound waste when combined with organics management and mixed recyclables sorting. AMP also plans to expand the single-stream recycling operations inherited from RDS Portsmouth. Founded in 2014, AMP Robotics has identified 150 billion items and sorted over 2.5 million tons of recyclables using its AI platform. The company raised $91 million in funding at the end of 2024 and is transitioning from solely a technology developer to an operating company by acquiring and managing
roboticsAIwaste-managementrecycling-technologyAMP-Roboticsmunicipal-solid-wasteautomationCreateMe innovates with robotic assembly, adhesion tech for the garment industry - The Robot Report
CreateMe Technologies Inc., based in Newark, California, has introduced two key innovations aimed at transforming apparel manufacturing: MeRA, an autonomous robotic platform for garment assembly, and Pixel, a proprietary micro-adhesive technology that replaces traditional sewing. MeRA enables software-defined, end-to-end garment construction, producing up to 250 garments per hour with twice the precision of manual sewing and at a speed 20 times faster. The first commercial application targets women’s intimates, offering fully autonomous bonded products designed for comfort, fit, and sustainability. The company plans to expand MeRA’s use to everyday apparel such as T-shirts, emphasizing flexibility and cost-competitiveness with offshore manufacturing. The Pixel adhesive technology bonds seams with precision less than 1mm wide, enhancing garment stretch, durability, comfort, and recyclability by allowing clean material separation—unlike traditional stitching or permanent adhesives. Pixel also supports performance features like moisture-wicking and thermal regulation, contributing to longer garment lifespans and smoother
roboticsrobotic-assemblygarment-manufacturingautomationadhesive-technologyapparel-industrysustainable-manufacturingAWS, NVIDIA, and MassRobotics pick Diligent for first Physical AI Fellowship cohort - The Robot Report
MassRobotics, AWS, and NVIDIA have launched the Physical AI Fellowship to support startups integrating robotics and artificial intelligence for practical applications. Diligent Robotics, known for its AI-native mobile manipulator robot Moxi, was selected for the inaugural cohort. Moxi assists nurses in over 25 U.S. hospitals by performing routine tasks like medication and lab sample delivery, saving nearly 600,000 staff hours and completing over 1 million tasks. The fellowship offers Diligent Robotics $200,000 in AWS cloud credits, access to NVIDIA platforms and Deep Learning Institute resources, and support from MassRobotics’ testbed and ecosystem, aiming to accelerate development of autonomous humanoid robots and enhance Moxi’s intelligence layer. The Physical AI Fellowship is designed to fast-track startups building intelligent physical systems by providing technical guidance, hardware, and global networking opportunities. The program will culminate in showcases at major events including AWS re:Invent 2025. Diligent Robotics plans to use the fellowship to expand
roboticsartificial-intelligenceautomationhealthcare-robotsphysical-AIAWSNVIDIAFesto adds new sizes of EHMD grippers for laboratory automation - The Robot Report
Festo Corp. has expanded its electric handling module (EHMD) line of compact grippers by introducing new 40 mm and 50 mm sizes designed specifically for life science automation. These grippers are tailored for applications requiring the precise gripping and rotation of small objects within confined spaces, such as in vitro diagnostics, genomic research, and pharmaceutical quality inspections. A notable feature is an optional Z-compensation module that automatically adjusts to different cap thread pitches without moving the Z-axis, thereby eliminating changeover times. The EHMD grippers can be integrated with 3D gantry systems and cameras to perform tasks like quality inspection, barcode reading, and label printing. They are available in fully electric or pneumatic versions and can deliver variable gripping force when powered by Festo’s multi-protocol servo drive CMMT-ST. In addition to product updates, Festo Didactic North America will showcase its hands-on learning systems at Pack Expo 2025, emphasizing workforce development in automation, mechatronics, robotics
robotautomationgripperslaboratory-automationindustrial-roboticsmechatronicselectric-handling-moduleGecko Robotics releases StratoSight drone-based roof inspection system - The Robot Report
Gecko Robotics, in partnership with NAES Corp., has launched StratoSight, a drone-based roof inspection system aimed at commercial rooftops. This marks Gecko Robotics’ first venture into aerial inspections, expanding beyond its initial focus on automating boiler inspections. StratoSight uses off-the-shelf drones equipped with custom payloads that capture high-definition photogrammetry and thermography data to detect early signs of roof degradation such as thermal loss, water intrusion, and structural shifts. The system aims to address the significant challenges and dangers associated with manual roof inspections, which are not only risky for personnel but also prone to missing up to 50% of critical issues. A key differentiator of StratoSight is its end-to-end approach that integrates robotics, software, and human expertise to optimize data collection and interpretation. The system processes most of the data in the cloud, enabling automated defect detection and timely delivery of actionable insights to customers. This contrasts with traditional manual inspections that typically produce lengthy reports with limited practical
roboticsdrone-technologyroof-inspectionautomationthermal-imagingphotogrammetrydata-analyticsIcarus raises $6.1M to use robots to supplement space labor - The Robot Report
Icarus Robotics, a New York-based startup, has raised $6.1 million in seed funding led by Soma Capital and Xtal to develop robotic solutions that address labor shortages and logistical challenges in space, particularly on the International Space Station (ISS). The company’s initial product is a free-flying robot equipped with dexterous arms designed to perform routine logistics tasks such as cargo unpacking, seal inspection, and filter changes—activities that currently consume significant astronaut time. CEO Ethan Barajas, who has NASA and lunar rover experience, highlights that astronaut labor is costly and limited, with much time dedicated to non-experimental activities, making automation of mundane tasks critical for efficient space operations. Icarus aims to start with semi-autonomous, teleoperated robots and progressively move toward fully autonomous systems. The company faces unique challenges in developing AI for space due to the scarcity of relevant robotics data and the complexities of operating in zero-gravity environments. Barajas notes that many of the logistical tasks astronauts
roboticsspace-robotsautomationspace-laborInternational-Space-Stationrobotic-logisticsAI-in-roboticsHowToRobot launches service to ease sourcing of automation - The Robot Report
HowToRobot, a Denmark-based company, has launched a new AI-powered sourcing service aimed at simplifying the automation procurement process for manufacturers and supply chains. Traditionally, obtaining competitive quotes for automation projects can take months due to the complexity of scoping projects, developing specifications, and soliciting proposals. HowToRobot’s service uses artificial intelligence to interact with buyers, gather detailed requirements, and generate structured project briefs that are then sent to a global network of over 20,000 suppliers, including those offering sensors, end effectors, and complete robotic systems. This approach significantly reduces the time needed to define requirements, match suppliers, review quotes, and arrange financing, potentially compressing a process that once took months into just days. The service evolved from HowToRobot’s consulting experience, addressing challenges faced by buyers new to automation who often struggle to properly scope projects or understand what features are necessary. The AI guides users through key process steps by asking targeted questions based on industry-specific knowledge, such as welding or pallet
roboticsautomationartificial-intelligencemanufacturingsupply-chainindustrial-robotsautomation-sourcingDog crate-sized robot factory trains itself by watching human demos
MicroFactory, a San Francisco-based startup founded in 2024, has developed a compact robotic system roughly the size of a dog crate that can perform a wide range of manual tasks typically done by human hands. The system features two robotic arms capable of precise operations such as circuit board assembly, soldering, cable routing, and even delicate actions like threading a needle. It is designed to automate repetitive manual labor and can assemble real products efficiently, with the company claiming it is more effective than humanoid robots due to its simpler, non-humanoid design optimized for both hardware and AI. The robotic system can be trained through AI or by human demonstration using an external robotic arm to physically guide the in-box arms through tasks. This teaching method enables the robot to replicate complex motions accurately and learn new tasks quickly. MicroFactory has also developed a user interface that breaks down tasks into smaller steps to facilitate training and operation. Since launching their prototype within five months, the company has received hundreds of preorders from customers
roboticsrobotic-armsAI-trainingautomationelectronics-assemblyMicroFactorygeneral-purpose-robotsABB Robotics invests in LandingAI to accelerate vision AI - The Robot Report
ABB Robotics has invested in LandingAI through ABB Robotics Ventures to accelerate and simplify vision artificial intelligence (AI) for robotics. This collaboration aims to reduce robot vision AI training and deployment time by up to 80% using LandingAI’s pre-trained models, smart data workflows, and no-code tools. ABB highlights that this advancement will enable installation and deployment in hours rather than weeks, addressing the growing demand for AI-driven robotics that require greater flexibility, faster commissioning, and fewer specialist skills. The integration will embed LandingAI’s flagship product, LandingLens, into ABB’s software suite, making vision AI more intuitive and accessible to a broader user base. LandingAI, founded by AI expert Andrew Ng, specializes in agentic visual AI technologies that help users transition AI projects from proof of concept to production without complex programming. Its technologies include tools for extracting actionable intelligence from unstructured visual data, enhancing efficiency at scale. The partnership is expected to unlock “autonomous versatile robotics” (AVR), enabling system integrators
roboticsartificial-intelligencevision-AIautomationABB-RoboticsLandingAIindustrial-robotsARM Institute announces ARM Champions during annual member meeting - The Robot Report
The ARM Institute recently held its ninth annual member meeting, where it presented the 2025 ARM Champion Awards to recognize individual members who have significantly contributed to advancing U.S. manufacturing through robotics, autonomy, and artificial intelligence. The Pittsburgh-based ARM Institute, founded in 2017 and funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, is part of the Manufacturing USA network and includes over 450 members from industry, academia, and government. Its mission is to make advanced manufacturing technologies more accessible, empower the workforce, and strengthen national security and economic competitiveness. This year’s ARM Champions included representatives from prominent organizations such as Lockheed Martin, ThoughtForge AI, NIST, Southwest Research Institute, Siemens, and several universities and colleges. Yaskawa, a member company with previous honorees among its employees, sponsored the awards dinner. The event featured extensive networking, workshops, and demonstrations, including technology presentations and AR/VR workforce development activities. The ARM Institute emphasized collaboration and innovation as key themes, with
robotroboticsmanufacturingautomationARM-Instituteartificial-intelligenceworkforce-developmentSymage to spotlight future of vision model training at RoboBusiness
Symage, a company specializing in physics-based, high-fidelity synthetic image data for AI and computer vision training, will showcase its technology at RoboBusiness 2025, held October 15-16 at the Santa Clara Convention Center. Unlike generative AI approaches, Symage’s platform generates photorealistic synthetic datasets without visual artifacts or model degradation, resulting in faster training, improved accuracy, better edge case coverage, and reduced bias. CEO Brian Geisel emphasizes that this approach enables robotics teams to develop and test vision models more efficiently and reliably, supporting advancements in smarter and safer robotics systems. At RoboBusiness, which attracts over 2,000 robotics professionals and features 100+ exhibitors and numerous educational sessions, Geisel will present on how synthetic data accelerates vision model development, particularly in warehouse automation, agriculture technology, and mobile robotics. Symage’s offerings highlight the potential of physics-accurate synthetic data to train models before hardware availability, addressing critical edge cases and improving data quality. The
roboticsAI-trainingsynthetic-datacomputer-visionrobotics-developmentautomationrobotics-innovationRewiring infrastructure: the automation revolution in utility design
The article discusses how Spatial Business Systems (SBS), led by President Al Eliasen, is revolutionizing utility infrastructure design through automation and AI. Eliasen, who transitioned from semiconductor equipment to utility software, emphasizes the complexity and critical importance of modern utilities, especially amid the energy transition. With utilities facing massive infrastructure expansion—such as a Texas utility planning to double its $30 billion asset base in the next five to seven years—traditional manual design methods are no longer viable. SBS’s platform automates engineering calculations, synchronizes data with enterprise asset management (EAM) and GIS systems, and eliminates redundant manual work, resulting in faster, more accurate, and scalable design processes. Eliasen addresses concerns about automation threatening jobs, clarifying that SBS’s tools instead help utilities reduce backlogs, meet regulatory deadlines, and avoid costly fines, ultimately freeing up resources rather than cutting staff. A major challenge remains overcoming industry inertia and skepticism from veteran engineers who doubt automation’s applicability; however, demonstrations of SBS
energyautomationutility-infrastructuredigital-twinsCADasset-managementAIWe are entering a golden age of robotics startups — and not just because of AI
The article highlights a significant shift in the robotics startup ecosystem, marking what many investors consider a "golden age" for the sector. Around 2015, early-stage robotics startups struggled to secure venture capital, as most funding favored mature software applications rather than hardware-focused robotics. However, over the past decade, the robotics market has matured substantially, driven by improvements in hardware and software that have become both more advanced and affordable. This maturation, coupled with growing investor interest, has led to a surge in funding—$6 billion poured into robotics startups in the first seven months of 2025 alone, with projections indicating funding will surpass 2024 levels, making robotics one of the few non-AI sectors experiencing such growth. The industry's momentum did not arise solely from recent AI advancements, though AI has played a role in enhancing robotic technologies. Instead, a pivotal moment was Amazon’s acquisition of Kiva Systems in 2013, which catalyzed a wave of robotics startups and attracted engineering talent to
roboticsrobotics-startupsventure-capitalAI-in-roboticsautomationrobotics-fundingrobotics-industry-trendsFrom 5 to 5M: Robotics experts share lessons from scaling deployments at RoboBusiness - The Robot Report
The article previews a panel discussion titled “Scaling Robot Deployments: from 5 to 5M” at RoboBusiness 2025, focusing on the challenges and lessons learned in expanding robotic operations from small-scale proofs of concept to large, global deployments. The panelists, all experienced robotics founders and executives, emphasize that scaling robotics requires more than just technical innovation; it demands operational efficiency, employee training, evolving workforce roles, and strong executive support. The discussion aims to provide candid insights into what strategies have proven effective, what obstacles remain, and how the robotics industry can build towards scalable automation. Panelists include Jordan Bryan (Bear Robotics), who has driven significant growth in active robots and locations through operational optimization; Saman Farid (Formic), who leads a robotics-as-a-service company helping manufacturers overcome labor and productivity challenges by removing barriers to automation adoption; and Florian Pestoni (InOrbit.AI), who develops AI-powered orchestration platforms to manage and scale robot operations globally. Also featured are
roboticsrobot-deploymentautomationrobotics-scalingrobotic-operationsAI-in-roboticsrobotics-industryJack Ma-backed firm unveils humanoid robot that can cook shrimp
Ant Group, backed by Jack Ma, has unveiled its first humanoid robot, the R1, developed by its robotics division Ant Lingbo Technology (Robbyant). The 243-pound, two-armed robot stands about 5.2 to 5.7 feet tall and can move at speeds up to 1.5 meters per second with 34 degrees of freedom. Demonstrated at IFA 2025 in Berlin and the Inclusion Conference in Shanghai, the R1 showcased capabilities such as cooking shrimp, serving as a tour guide, and providing basic medical consultations. The robot is already in mass production and has been delivered to early clients like the Shanghai History Museum, though it is sold as part of broader “scenario solutions” rather than as a standalone product. A second-generation model is currently in development. Ant Lingbo Technology was founded in late 2024 and officially launched in early 2025, with bases in Shanghai and Hangzhou. The company aims to extend Ant Group’s
robothumanoid-robotartificial-intelligenceroboticsAnt-Groupautomationcooking-robotGudel extends collaborative robot reach with CoboMover - The Robot Report
Güdel Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of the Swiss-based Güdel Group, has introduced the CoboMover, a seventh-axis linear track designed to extend the working range of collaborative robots (cobots) and light industrial arms up to 5 meters (16.4 feet). Unveiled at FABTECH, the CoboMover enables robots to operate across multiple workstations without manual repositioning, addressing key limitations in mobility within large workspaces and facility layout constraints. The system supports over 60 cobot models, offers mounting at 0° and 180°, and can handle payloads up to 78 kg (172 lb.) with high repeatability (±0.05 mm). Stroke lengths range from 1 to 5 meters, with a maximum speed of 2 m/s and acceleration of 2 m/s². The CoboMover features a toothed belt drive and Güdel’s HPG045 angular gearbox, and its modular track system incorporates air bearings capable
robotcollaborative-robotsautomationindustrial-robotsrobot-track-systemscobotsmanufacturing-technologyFirst wave of humanoid robots enters warehouses and shop floors
Humanoid robots are transitioning from experimental prototypes in labs to practical applications on factory floors and warehouses. Companies like Amazon, Tesla, and startups such as Figure are actively developing and deploying humanoid robots to perform tasks like deliveries, fetching and carrying parts, and handling boxes. This shift aims to offload repetitive, dangerous, or physically demanding work from humans, allowing people to focus on safer and more creative roles. However, the rise of humanoid robots also raises concerns about potential job losses, especially in communities heavily dependent on large employers like Amazon and Walmart. Technologically, humanoid robots replicate human anatomy with electric actuators functioning as “muscles” to enable precise and strong movements, while sensor suites—including cameras, lidar, inertial sensors, and tactile sensors—provide perception and balance. These inputs feed into onboard computers running sophisticated control algorithms and AI, which manage stability, navigation, and object manipulation. Globally, efforts span from cost-effective models in China to service and elder-care robots in Japan and
roboticshumanoid-robotsautomationindustrial-robotswarehouse-automationTesla-OptimusBoston-DynamicsWhere top VCs are betting next: Index, Greylock, and Felicis share 2026 priorities at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, a prominent panel of venture capitalists from Index Ventures, Greylock, and Felicis will share their investment priorities for 2026 and beyond. Nina Achadjian of Index Ventures is focusing on automating overlooked industries with investments in AI, robotics, and vertical SaaS. Jerry Chen from Greylock is backing product-driven founders working in AI, data, cloud infrastructure, and open source technologies. Viviana Faga of Felicis brings extensive experience in scaling go-to-market SaaS, category creation, and brand strategy, highlighting sectors that are gaining traction. The panel offers early-stage founders valuable insights into the emerging sectors and innovations attracting “smart money,” including AI, data, cloud, and robotics. This session provides a rare opportunity for entrepreneurs to understand how top VCs are shaping the next wave of investments. TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 will take place from October 27–29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, with early pricing available until
robotAIautomationventure-capitalstartupstechnology-investmentscloud-infrastructureWhy heavy industry is hiring more contract engineers
Heavy industries such as energy, automotive, mining, and chemical sectors are increasingly shifting from traditional permanent engineering teams to flexible, project-based hiring of contract or “gig” engineers. This transformation is driven by factors including tight budgets, volatile markets, and the need for specialized skills—particularly in automation, controls, robotics, and digital upgrades—that may not be available internally. Following significant workforce reductions after the 2020 oil bust, companies now prefer assembling just-in-time engineering teams tailored to specific projects, avoiding the overhead and long-term commitments associated with full-time employees. Cost analyses reveal that contractors can be nearly half as expensive as full-time engineers when factoring in benefits and overhead, making contract staffing financially attractive in boom-and-bust industries. While this model offers agility and cost savings, it also presents challenges. Heavy industry projects often require deep system integration, and reliance on temporary staff can increase error rates and turnover due to less institutional knowledge. Consequently, companies must invest more in supervision and onboarding of contract engineers.
energyheavy-industrycontract-engineersautomationroboticsdigital-upgradesoil-and-gasSam Altman says that bots are making social media feel ‘fake’
Sam Altman, a prominent figure in AI and social media, recently expressed concern that bots and AI-generated content have made social media platforms feel increasingly “fake.” His realization came while observing posts on the r/Claudecode subreddit, where many users praised OpenAI’s Codex. Altman noted that the posts seemed suspiciously uniform, making it difficult to discern genuine human contributions from bot-generated or coordinated content. He attributed this phenomenon to several factors, including humans adopting language patterns typical of large language models (LLMs), the highly correlated behavior of online communities, social media platforms’ optimization for engagement, monetization incentives, and potential astroturfing efforts by competitors. Altman’s reflections highlight a broader issue: the blurring line between authentic human interaction and AI-generated or influenced content on social media. He acknowledged that while some of the enthusiasm around OpenAI’s products is real, the overall environment feels artificial compared to a few years ago. This shift is partly due to the sophistication of L
robotartificial-intelligencesocial-media-botslarge-language-modelsOpenAIautomationonline-engagementInside Singapore's physical AI revolution
The article summarizes Episode 210 of The Robot Report Podcast, which centers on Singapore’s emerging leadership in physical AI and robotics. Key guests from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Certis Group, and the Home Team Science & Technology Agency discuss Singapore’s strategic initiatives to grow its robotics sector. The country leverages its strong manufacturing base, government incentives, and a collaborative ecosystem involving industry and academia to foster innovation and talent development. Emphasis is placed on the importance of integration, reliability, and scalability for successful deployment of robotics and AI technologies. The episode also covers notable robotics news, including Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot performing a public triple backflip, showcasing advancements in reinforcement learning for robot agility and recovery. Despite the impressive feat, Spot’s performance in America’s Got Talent did not advance to the quarterfinals. Additionally, Intuitive Surgical announced a permanent layoff of 331 employees (about 2% of its workforce) at its Sunnyvale headquarters. Lastly, John Deere expanded its agricultural
roboticsartificial-intelligencephysical-AISingaporeBoston-Dynamicsreinforcement-learningautomationInside Singapore's Physical AI Revolution
The article highlights Singapore’s emerging leadership in physical AI and robotics, as discussed in Episode 210 of The Robot Report Podcast. Key figures from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Certis Group, and the Home Team Science & Technology Agency emphasize Singapore’s strategic advantages, including a robust manufacturing base, a supportive innovation ecosystem, and strong government-industry-academia collaboration. The EDB is actively fostering growth in the robotics sector by providing economic incentives and building a talent pipeline. The guests also stress the critical importance of integration, reliability, and scalability in deploying robotics and AI solutions effectively within various sectors. Additionally, the episode covers notable robotics news, such as Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot performing a triple backflip on America’s Got Talent, showcasing advances in reinforcement learning for robot agility and recovery. However, the act did not advance in the competition. The article also reports on Intuitive Surgical’s planned permanent layoff of 331 employees at its Sunnyvale headquarters, representing about 2% of
roboticsartificial-intelligenceSingaporeBoston-DynamicsSpot-robotautomationrobotics-industryTesla's '2.5 gen' Optimus humanoid stumbles through its first demo
Tesla recently showcased an updated version of its Optimus humanoid robot, dubbed "version 2.5," clarifying that this iteration is an intermediate upgrade rather than a new generation. The gold-colored robot demonstrated limited real-world capabilities in a brief demo featuring xAI’s Grok voice assistant. During the demo, the robot responded hesitantly to voice commands and walked slowly, with Elon Musk noting it was still cautious about spatial awareness and would eventually move faster. Despite these incremental improvements, the robot showed little evidence of advanced autonomy or dexterous manipulation, and the video ended before any object retrieval was attempted. Visually, Optimus 2.5 features a smoother, more cohesive exterior with rounded edges, better-covered joints, and fewer visible seams and wires, marking a shift toward a more human-like silhouette. These design refinements aim to enhance both the robot’s mobility and its readiness for human environments. Tesla continues to emphasize Optimus as a key part of its long-term strategy, pairing
robothumanoid-robotTesla-Optimusrobotics-demoAI-assistantautomationbipedal-robotTesla Optimus Disappoints Internet
The recently released footage of Tesla’s Optimus robot on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has been met with disappointment from viewers. Despite Tesla’s significant emphasis on Optimus as a key future product, the new visuals failed to impress the internet audience, raising concerns about the robot’s current capabilities and readiness. This negative reception could have implications for Tesla, which has been banking on Optimus to play a major role in its product lineup and technological innovation. The skepticism expressed online may reflect broader doubts about the timeline and feasibility of Optimus meeting Tesla’s ambitious goals, potentially impacting investor and public confidence in the project’s progress.
robotTesla-Optimushumanoid-robotrobotics-technologyAI-roboticsautomationTeslaDelta Railroad Services unveils automated Rail Unloader Car - The Robot Report
Delta Railroad Services has introduced an automated Rail Unloader Car (RUC) designed to safely and efficiently unload continuous welded rail (CWR) strings up to 1,600 feet long from railcars. This innovation automates a traditionally manual, labor-intensive, and hazardous process, enabling precise and rapid offloading of rails directly onto the track bed. The company highlights that the RUC significantly improves unloading speed, reduces the risk of worker injuries by minimizing manual intervention, and is adaptable to various railcar types and rail sizes. The RUC operates as a self-contained system capable of handling tangents and curves without manual assistance, accelerating project timelines and enhancing overall safety. It is fully integrated to move freely across railroad networks like a railcar, offering superior versatility. Delta Railroad Services, part of the Salcef Group and based in Ashtabula, Ohio, emphasizes customer-focused design prioritizing operator comfort and safety. The company continues to support the expanding railroad infrastructure demands across the U.S. and North
robotautomationrail-industrysafetyinfrastructuremanufacturingtransportationExperts to discuss how to close the robotics gap with China at RoboBusiness - The Robot Report
The article highlights the growing dominance of China in the global robotics industry, noting that in 2023 China became the third most automated country worldwide, surpassing the U.S., Germany, and Japan. China now holds the largest market for industrial robots and accounts for over half of global industrial robot installations, a significant increase from about one-fifth a decade ago. The Chinese government has committed to investing nearly $137 billion over 20 years in robotics, artificial intelligence, and innovation, further solidifying its advanced manufacturing ecosystem. In response to China's rapid advancements, RoboBusiness 2025, scheduled for October 15-16 in Santa Clara, California, will feature a keynote session titled “Closing the Robotics Gap with China.” This panel will include experts such as Jeff Burnstein (Association for Advancing Automation), Georg Steiler (Stieler Technology & Market Advisory), Eric Truebenbach (Teradyne Ventures), and Eugene Demaitre (The Robot Report). They will discuss strategies for the U.S
roboticsindustrial-robotsautomationChina-robotics-marketrobotics-investmentadvanced-manufacturingrobotics-innovationFigure humanoid robot masters dishwashing after folding laundry
Figure, a California-based robotics company, has advanced its humanoid robot, Figure 02, to perform the complex household task of loading a dishwasher with human-like precision. Powered by the company’s generalist Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model called Helix, the robot can carefully pick up, reorient, and arrange various dishes and glasses in the dishwasher with finger-level accuracy and minimal error tolerance. Remarkably, this capability was achieved without any new algorithms or task-specific programming; instead, the robot learned the task through additional data and observation of human actions, allowing it to recover gracefully from errors or collisions. This development builds on previous demonstrations where Figure 02 folded towels, rearranged packages, and placed garments into a washing machine using the same Helix AI model. The key innovation lies in Helix’s general-purpose architecture, which enables the robot to acquire diverse skills through data-driven learning rather than specialized engineering for each task. While the robot’s growing repertoire brings the vision of a
robothumanoid-robotAI-modelVision-Language-Actionhousehold-robotautomationroboticsAutomation Needed to Foward Renewable Energy Transition in Developing Nations - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica emphasizes that the global transition to renewable energy is fundamentally a technological revolution reliant on sophisticated automation and data intelligence systems. Beyond the physical deployment of solar panels and wind turbines, the integration of advanced control systems—such as programmable logic controllers and modernized SCADA platforms—is critical for optimizing operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and managing intermittency challenges. Large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and emerging technologies like green hydrogen production depend heavily on precise automation to ensure grid stability and safe, efficient operation. A significant innovation highlighted is the use of digital twins—virtual replicas of physical assets—that enable engineers to simulate and optimize renewable energy systems before real-world implementation. Leading American companies like AWS, Bentley Systems, and Rockwell Automation are at the forefront of this transformation, offering cloud infrastructure, digital twin platforms, and integrated control systems. Their approach reflects a broader American innovation philosophy aimed at addressing global-scale challenges through scalable, interconnected industrial automation solutions, exemplified by Rockwell Automation’s “
energyrenewable-energyautomationSCADAbattery-energy-storage-systemsdigital-twinindustrial-control-systemsGoogle DeepMind, Intrinsic build AI for multi-robot planning
The article discusses a new AI-driven approach to programming and coordinating multiple industrial robots in shared workspaces, developed through a collaboration between Google DeepMind Robotics, Intrinsic, and University College London. Traditional methods for robot motion planning rely heavily on manual programming, teach pendants, and trial-and-error, which are time-consuming and become increasingly complex when managing multiple robots to avoid collisions. The researchers introduced "RoboBallet," an AI model that leverages reinforcement learning and graph neural networks (GNNs) to generate collision-free motion plans efficiently. This model represents robots, tasks, and obstacles as nodes in a graph and learns generalized planning strategies by training on millions of synthetic scenarios, enabling it to produce near-optimal trajectories rapidly without manual intervention. Intrinsic, a company spun out of Alphabet’s X in 2021, aims to simplify industrial robot programming and scaling. Their RoboBallet system requires only CAD files and high-level task descriptions to generate motion plans, eliminating the need for detailed coding or fine
roboticsartificial-intelligencemulti-robot-planningreinforcement-learninggraph-neural-networksindustrial-robotsautomationWhy humanoid robots aren't advancing as fast as AI chatbots - The Robot Report
The article discusses why humanoid robots are not advancing as rapidly as AI chatbots, despite recent breakthroughs in large language models (LLMs) that power conversational AI. While tech leaders like Elon Musk and Jensen Huang predict humanoid robots will soon perform complex tasks such as surgery or home assistance, robotics experts like UC Berkeley's Ken Goldberg caution that these expectations are overly optimistic. Goldberg highlights a fundamental challenge known as the “100,000-year data gap,” referring to the vast difference between the extensive textual data available to train AI chatbots and the limited physical interaction data available to train robots for real-world tasks. This gap significantly slows the development of robots’ dexterity and manipulation skills, which remain far behind their language processing capabilities. Goldberg emphasizes that the core difficulty lies in robots’ ability to perform precise physical tasks, such as picking up a wine glass or changing a light bulb—actions humans do effortlessly but robots struggle with due to the complexity of spatial perception and fine motor control. This issue, known
roboticshumanoid-robotsAI-chatbotsmachine-learningautomationrobotics-researchartificial-intelligenceUjjwal Kumar steps down as president of Teradyne Robotics - The Robot Report
Ujjwal Kumar has stepped down as president of Teradyne Robotics Group, announcing his departure on LinkedIn while committing to remain with the company through September 2025 to assist in the transition to his successor, Jean-Pierre Hathout. During his tenure of over two years, Kumar helped expand the product and customer portfolios of Universal Robots (UR) and Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR), promoted Physical AI, and supported customer transformation efforts. Kumar did not disclose his next career move but expressed continued interest in business transformation, Physical AI, Industry 5.0, and automation. Teradyne Robotics, which includes UR (a leader in collaborative robot arms) and MiR (an autonomous mobile robot developer), has faced challenges recently, including a 17% year-over-year revenue decline in Q2 2025 and a workforce reduction of about 10% earlier in the year to better align with market conditions. Leadership changes at both UR and MiR aim to sharpen strategic focus and improve execution.
roboticscollaborative-robotsautonomous-mobile-robotsTeradyne-Roboticsindustry-5.0automationphysical-AIGermany bets on AI-powered plant to give used EV batteries a new life
Germany is developing an AI-powered pilot plant in Chemnitz to repurpose used electric vehicle (EV) batteries, extending their lifespans and recovering valuable raw materials such as lithium and cobalt. Led by Dr. Rico Schmerler and his team at Fraunhofer IWU in partnership with EDAG Production Solutions, the initiative focuses on carefully dismantling and remanufacturing traction batteries that retain 70-80% of their capacity but are no longer suitable for vehicles. Instead of shredding, which wastes usable cells and materials, the plant uses automated, AI-supported processes to assess the state of health (SoH) of each battery module and cell, enabling the reuse of healthy components in grid storage systems for homes, businesses, or utilities. The Chemnitz facility aims to address the growing volume of used batteries expected in the EU by 2030, offering a scalable, safe, and efficient solution that preserves raw materials and reduces reliance on energy-intensive new production. Beyond hardware, the plant will
energyAIbattery-recyclingEV-batteriesautomationraw-materialssustainabilityRevolutionizing Manufacturing with Smart Factories - The Robot Report
The article discusses the transformative impact of smart factories on the manufacturing industry, highlighting the transition from Industry 4.0 to the emerging Industry 5.0 paradigm. Industry 4.0 integrates digital innovation, automation, and data intelligence to optimize production, increase efficiency, reduce waste, and address labor shortages. Industry 5.0 builds on this by incorporating human-centered values to improve worker experience and generate broader societal benefits. Central to this evolution are advanced connector solutions provided by companies like Heilind Electronics and Hirose Electric, which enable seamless automation, data management, and system integration in modern manufacturing environments. The eBook “Empowering Smart Factories” by Hirose Electric, available through Heilind Electronics, emphasizes the critical role of innovative connectors such as the FunctionMAX and ix Industrial series. These connectors support high-speed data transmission, reliable power delivery, and compact design, meeting the rigorous demands of Industry 4.0 applications including robotics, drones, and industrial sensors. Additionally, the article underscores
robotIoTsmart-manufacturingautomationIndustry-4.0connector-solutionssustainabilityHow Elon Musk’s humanoid dream clashes with 100,000-year data reality
The article discusses the significant challenges facing Elon Musk’s vision of humanoid robots, emphasizing insights from UC Berkeley roboticist Ken Goldberg. Despite advances in large language models (LLMs) trained on vast internet text, robotics lags far behind due to a massive "100,000-year data gap" in the kind of rich, embodied data required for robots to achieve human-like dexterity and reliability. Simple human tasks such as picking up a glass or changing a light bulb involve complex perception and manipulation skills that robots currently cannot replicate. Attempts to use online videos or simulations to train robots fall short because these sources lack detailed 3D motion and force data essential for fine motor skills. Teleoperation generates data but only at a linear, slow rate compared to the exponential data fueling language models. Goldberg highlights a debate in robotics between relying solely on massive data collection versus traditional engineering approaches grounded in physics and explicit world modeling. He advocates a pragmatic middle ground: deploying robots with limited but reliable capabilities to collect real-world
roboticshumanoid-robotsmachine-learningdata-gapautomationrobotics-engineeringartificial-intelligenceMIT Students Invent AI Kitchen Robot
MIT students have developed a retro-futuristic kitchen robot named Kitchen Cosmos, designed to help reduce food waste by scanning leftover ingredients and generating recipes using ChatGPT. The robot integrates AI technology to analyze available food items and suggest creative meal ideas, making cooking more efficient and sustainable. This innovation highlights the practical application of artificial intelligence in everyday household tasks, particularly in the kitchen. By leveraging ChatGPT's language processing capabilities, Kitchen Cosmos offers personalized recipe recommendations based on the user's existing ingredients, potentially transforming how people approach meal preparation and leftover management.
robotAIkitchen-robotroboticsartificial-intelligenceautomationMITNidec returns to RoboBusiness to demo advanced robotics gears
Nidec DRIVE TECHNOLOGY (NDT) is returning to RoboBusiness 2025, held October 15-16 in Santa Clara, California, to showcase its latest advancements in high-precision gearing and motion control technologies tailored for robotics applications. At this premier commercial robotics event, NDT will highlight two key products: the FLEXWAVE strain wave gearheads, designed for ultra-precise motion control in compact robotic systems, and the KINEX cycloidal reducers, which offer high-torque performance and durability for demanding environments. These solutions target mission-critical sectors including robotics, medical, aerospace, semiconductor, and assembly/test systems, reflecting Nidec’s broad portfolio aimed at providing flexible, application-driven gearing options. In addition to these flagship products, Nidec will present its high-precision planetary and servo worm gearheads, optimized for space-constrained designs and seamless integration into automation and assembly systems. The company’s experts will be available to provide guidance on enhancing torque density, reducing backlash
roboticsmotion-controlrobotic-gearsautomationprecision-engineeringhigh-torque-reducersrobotics-innovation911 centers are so understaffed, they’re turning to AI to answer calls
The article discusses how 911 call centers, which are severely understaffed due to the high-pressure nature of emergency dispatch work and significant turnover rates, are increasingly turning to AI solutions to manage non-emergency call volumes. Max Keenan’s company, Aurelian, pivoted from automating salon appointment bookings to developing an AI voice assistant that triages non-urgent calls such as noise complaints, parking violations, and stolen wallet reports. The AI system is designed to recognize genuine emergencies and immediately transfer those calls to human dispatchers, while handling less urgent issues by collecting information and generating reports for police follow-up. Since its launch in May 2024, Aurelian’s AI has been deployed in over a dozen 911 dispatch centers across the U.S. Aurelian recently raised $14 million in a Series A funding round led by NEA, with investors highlighting that the AI is not replacing existing employees but filling gaps caused by staffing shortages. The company claims to be ahead of competitors like
AIemergency-responsevoice-assistantautomationcall-centersartificial-intelligencepublic-safetyHow automation and farm robots are transforming agriculture - The Robot Report
The article from The Robot Report highlights how automation and farm robots are revolutionizing agriculture by addressing the rising global food demand and labor shortages. With the world projected to need 70% more food by 2050 to feed nearly 9.7 billion people, farm automation has shifted from a luxury to a necessity. Modern agricultural robots automate critical tasks such as planting, harvesting, and weeding, while supporting sustainable farming practices. These robots, combined with satellite imagery and AI-driven analytics, enable precision agriculture that optimizes resource use, reduces waste, and minimizes environmental impact. Farm robots have evolved significantly since the late 1990s, when GPS-guided tractors first appeared. Today’s smart machinery operates with centimeter-level accuracy and real-time monitoring of soil and crop conditions. These technologies allow for precise seed placement, targeted weed removal without chemicals, and nutrient analysis to ensure optimal growth. Robotics plays a key role in precision agriculture by enabling targeted watering, fertilizing, and pest control, which lowers costs and
robotagriculturefarm-robotsautomationprecision-agricultureAIsmart-farmingRoboCup@Work League: Interview with Christoph Steup - Robohub
The RoboCup@Work League is part of the Industrial League within the international RoboCup initiative, which aims to advance intelligent robotics, AI, and automation. The @Work League focuses on mimicking aspects of industrial production systems, particularly the concept of the "factory of the future," where autonomous robots build customized products efficiently on a small scale. Unlike traditional factories that mass-produce identical items on large conveyor belts, the @Work League emphasizes the production of individual pieces with automation. The robots used in the competition are compact, fitting within a one-meter cube, and operate entirely on the ground to simplify logistics and reduce costs. In the competition, robots must autonomously transport objects between various workstations with only a single restart allowed per team, highlighting the need for reliability and consistent performance. Beyond object transportation, teams face specialized tasks such as precision placement—fitting objects into cavities of matching shape and size—and handling objects on a rotating table that simulates a conveyor belt. This rotating table is a practical abstraction
roboticsautomationindustrial-robotsRoboCupfactory-automationautonomous-robotsAI-in-manufacturingMultiply Labs reduces biomanufacturing costs by 74% with UR cobots - The Robot Report
Multiply Labs Inc. has developed an innovative “robotic biomanufacturing cluster” using Universal Robots (UR) collaborative robots (cobots) to automate the production of personalized cell therapies, significantly reducing manufacturing costs by 74%. These therapies, often used to treat blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia, are traditionally expensive—ranging from $300,000 to $2 million per dose—due to their highly customized nature and manual, artisanal production processes. Multiply Labs’ automated system, controlled via the cloud, replicates complex manual tasks with high precision, repeatability, and in sterile conditions, addressing challenges such as contamination risks and scalability. The company selected UR cobots for their six-axis capabilities, delicate force control, software integration, and cleanroom compatibility. Multiple UR cobots operate in parallel with collision avoidance, enabling the full manufacturing workflow to be automated. This collaboration marks UR’s first partnership in the cell and gene therapy sector and demonstrates how robotics can enhance pharmaceutical manufacturing efficiency and broaden patient
robotcobotsbiomanufacturingcell-therapypharmaceutical-manufacturingautomationcollaborative-robotsBoston Dynamics and TRI use large behavior models to train Atlas humanoid - The Robot Report
Boston Dynamics, in collaboration with Toyota Research Institute (TRI), is advancing the development of large behavior models (LBMs) to enhance the capabilities of its Atlas humanoid robot. Recognizing that humanoid robots must competently perform a wide range of tasks—from manipulating delicate objects to handling heavy items while maintaining balance and avoiding obstacles—Boston Dynamics is focusing on creating AI generalist robots. Their approach involves training end-to-end, language-conditioned policies that enable Atlas to execute complex, long-horizon manipulation tasks by leveraging its full-body mobility, including precise foot placement, crouching, and center-of-mass shifts. The development process involves four key steps: collecting embodied behavior data via teleoperation on both real hardware and simulations; processing and annotating this data for machine learning; training neural network policies across diverse tasks; and evaluating performance to guide further improvements. To maximize task coverage, Boston Dynamics employs a teleoperation system combining Atlas’ model predictive controller with a custom VR interface, enabling the robot to perform tasks
roboticshumanoid-robotsBoston-DynamicsAI-in-roboticsmachine-learningrobot-manipulationautomationTechCrunch Mobility: Ford’s big bet
Ford announced a $2 billion investment to convert its Louisville Assembly Plant into a facility for producing a new generation of affordable electric vehicles (EVs), starting with a midsize pickup truck priced around $30,000, expected to launch in 2027. CEO Jim Farley emphasized the risks involved, noting that the project is a significant bet involving many new approaches. Ford developed a novel three-pronged assembly line using increased automation and unicastings, departing from its traditional manufacturing methods to build EVs more efficiently and maintain profit margins. This $5 billion experiment, including a $3 billion investment in a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery factory, aims to keep jobs in the U.S. amid challenges like tariffs, slower EV demand, and competition from China. However, the new manufacturing technique is vehicle-specific and cannot be easily applied to other Ford factories. The article also briefly covers other mobility sector news: rental car startup Kyte has effectively ceased operations after selling its customer list to peer-to
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-manufacturingbattery-factoryautomationEV-productionFordSouth Korea unveils humanoid robot with 40-newton fingertip strength
South Korean robotics company WIRobotics has introduced ALLEX, a general-purpose humanoid robot designed for real-world applications emphasizing safety, versatility, and responsiveness. Unveiled at Korea University of Technology’s Robot Innovation Hub, ALLEX features 15 degrees of freedom enabling life-like movements and complex interactions. It can detect forces as small as 100 gram-force without tactile sensors and delivers a fingertip force of 40 Newtons. The robot’s arm system boasts significantly reduced friction and rotational inertia compared to conventional collaborative robots, along with a gravity compensation mechanism that allows it to perform high-load tasks efficiently without excess energy use or mechanical stress. ALLEX is lightweight, with its hand weighing about 700 grams and the shoulder assembly 5 kilograms, yet it can lift over 3 kilograms with one hand, offering a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to many larger robots. ALLEX distinguishes itself from other humanoid robots like Figure 02 and Digit by prioritizing precision, dexterity, and safety over
robothumanoid-robotroboticsautomationAI-roboticscollaborative-robotsindustrial-robotsWiBotic obtains three certifications for wireless robot charging - The Robot Report
WiBotic has achieved three key safety certifications—FCC (U.S.), CE (Europe), and Giteki (Japan)—for its wireless robot charging products, including its 1kW wireless charging system. These certifications are critical benchmarks that demonstrate the products have undergone rigorous testing to meet stringent regulatory standards for safety, electromagnetic interference (EMI), and reliability. WiBotic emphasizes that such certifications are essential for ensuring safe deployment and scaling of robotics fleets, as they provide assurance that the technology operates within legal and safe parameters, minimizing risks such as overheating or malfunction. The FCC certification focuses on limiting electromagnetic emissions to prevent interference with other communication systems, requiring tests on radiated and conducted emissions as well as exposure limits to wireless frequencies. The CE mark mandates compliance with European safety, health, and environmental directives, often involving third-party testing, allowing products to be sold across the European Economic Area. WiBotic’s 1kW system met the FCC’s Class A device standards for industrial environments by
robotwireless-chargingFCC-certificationCE-certificationsafety-standardsautomationroboticsChinese YouTuber builds mini subway with working train for cats
Chinese YouTuber and engineer Xing Zhilei has created a fully functional miniature subway system designed specifically for his cats. The project, which took four months to complete, features realistic elements such as tunnels, synchronized train and platform doors, a moving train, and a working escalator connecting different levels. Xing overcame significant engineering challenges, particularly synchronizing the doors and building the escalator on a small scale, through persistent testing and adjustments. The final setup includes charming details like a “Cattown Station” and a welcome announcement, making the subway feel like a living, miniature transit system. This subway is part of a larger “mini world” that Xing has been developing over the years for his pets, which includes elaborate structures such as a Cybertruck, spa, supermarket, and theater. His projects combine engineering expertise with creativity and a deep affection for animals, aiming to provide imaginative and functional environments for cats, dogs, and hamsters. Xing’s work not only showcases his technical skills but also reflects
robotengineeringmini-subwayautomationescalatorsynchronizationpet-technologyWhy end of arm tooling could be robotics' most profitable niche - The Robot Report
The article highlights the significant and often overlooked role of end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) in the robotics industry, positioning it as potentially the most profitable niche within robotics. EOAT refers to the various devices attached to robotic arms—such as grippers, suction cups, welding torches, and surgical tools—that enable robots to interact with and manipulate objects. Unlike the more visible robot hardware, EOAT is essential for practical automation and commands a growing market valued at $2.6 billion in 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1% through 2028. Certain EOAT segments, like soft robotics grippers used in delicate food handling, may see even faster growth rates of 18–20% CAGR, outpacing the 7–8% growth expected for industrial robot hardware. Several factors contribute to EOAT’s strong market position. The large installed base of over 553,000 industrial robots in 2023 ensures recurring revenue
roboticsend-of-arm-toolingindustrial-robotsautomationrobotic-grippersmanufacturing-technologyrobotics-market-growthVERSES multi-agent robotics model works without pre-training - The Robot Report
VERSES AI Inc. has developed a novel multi-agent robotics architecture based on hierarchical active inference that enables robots to perform typical household tasks more effectively than existing models without requiring any pre-training. Unlike traditional robotics approaches—drive-by-wire systems that rely on pre-programming and deep learning models that need extensive training data—VERSES’ system adapts dynamically by exploring its environment, using integrated vision, planning, and control modules. This approach allows robots to handle unexpected obstacles and changes in their surroundings, overcoming common limitations such as freezing or halting when encountering unfamiliar situations. The company, founded in 2020 and based in Vancouver, emphasizes that its platform is inspired by principles from science, physics, and biology to generate reliable predictions and decisions under uncertainty. In comparative tests involving household tasks like tidying a room, preparing groceries, and setting a table, the VERSES model achieved a 66.5% success rate, outperforming a deep learning baseline that scored 54.7%. VERSES claims this
roboticsartificial-intelligencemulti-agent-systemsadaptive-robotsautomationVERSES-AIrobotics-architectureRobot muralist gives Tesla Gigafactory a colorful graffiti makeover
Tesla’s Berlin Gigafactory is undergoing a unique artistic transformation as a robot muralist paints colorful graffiti across its extensive concrete exterior walls. Initially, local graffiti crews began the project, but to cover the entire 1.2-square-mile factory, Tesla integrated advanced technology by employing a robotic painter developed in collaboration with a startup. This robot uses a print head with multiple nozzles and a Kevlar cable lifting mechanism to spray millions of tiny paint dots, enabling large-scale, precise murals. The artwork includes contributions from global artists as well as Tesla’s in-house designs, blending Berlin’s vibrant street art culture with Tesla’s high-tech identity. The murals draw inspiration not only from Berlin’s local spirit but also from Tesla’s products and the factory itself, reflecting a fusion of art, technology, and place. Vincent Krause, the workplace design lead at the Gigafactory, emphasized that the project is ongoing, aiming to cover all factory surfaces with this creative expression. Opened in 2022 after
robotroboticsTeslaGigafactorymuralist-robotautomationindustrial-robotsIFR examines humanoid adoption trends around the globe - The Robot Report
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) highlights the growing interest and development of humanoid robots worldwide, emphasizing their potential to automate complex tasks that traditional robots cannot easily handle due to their human-like dexterity and adaptability. While humanoids are unlikely to replace existing robots, they are expected to complement and expand current robotic technologies. Various regions have distinct approaches: China prioritizes humanoids for service sectors and aims to build scalable supply chains; the U.S. focuses on practical applications in logistics and manufacturing driven by private investment and AI advancements; Japan treats humanoids as social companions addressing societal needs like elder care; and Europe emphasizes ethical considerations, human-centric design, and collaborative robots that enhance human work rather than replace it. The IFR’s recent paper on humanoid robots outlines these regional trends and underscores the uncertainty about when mass adoption will occur. It also notes that while the technology is advancing rapidly, the integration of humanoids varies significantly based on cultural, economic, and strategic priorities. The report suggests that humano
robothumanoid-robotsrobotics-industryautomationartificial-intelligencemanufacturing-roboticsrobotics-investmentSo you want to be an engineer? Here's where you start
The article "So you want to be an engineer? Here's where you start" serves as an introductory guide to the core engineering disciplines, aimed at helping aspiring engineers navigate the vast and diverse field. It highlights engineering as a dynamic and problem-solving profession with over 40 main disciplines and numerous subfields. The piece focuses on five fundamental engineering disciplines that form the backbone of the profession: mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering (with the remaining two disciplines presumably covered in subsequent parts of the series). Mechanical engineering is described as the broadest and most versatile field, involving the design and development of mechanical systems from small sensors to large machinery, including robotics and medical devices. Electrical engineering centers on electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic systems, with key areas such as power systems, telecommunications, and renewable energy. Civil engineering focuses on designing and maintaining infrastructure like buildings, bridges, transportation systems, and environmental projects. Each discipline is paired with typical job functions, potential employers, and salary ranges in the US, providing practical insights
engineeringmechanical-engineeringelectrical-engineeringroboticsenergy-systemsautomationrenewable-energyThis Humanoid Robot Will Fold Your Laundry!
The article discusses advancements in humanoid robots, specifically highlighting Figure’s Scaling Helix model, which enables robots to fold laundry. This development showcases the potential for assistant robots to perform everyday household tasks, offering a glimpse into a future where robotic helpers could significantly ease domestic chores. By demonstrating the ability to handle complex, delicate tasks like folding clothes, these robots represent a step forward in robotics technology and practical home automation. The article implies that such innovations could transform daily life by providing reliable, efficient assistance in routine activities, although further details on the robot’s capabilities and deployment are not provided.
robothumanoid-robotautomationrobotics-technologyhousehold-robotsAI-assistantrobot-applicationsFigure humanoid robot uses Helix AI brain to fold laundry smoothly
Figure’s humanoid robot, powered by the Helix AI brain, demonstrates advanced capabilities in folding laundry with human-like smoothness and adaptability. Helix is a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model that integrates perception, language understanding, and learned control to enable robots to follow natural language commands and perform complex tasks without heavy programming or repeated demonstrations. In a recent video, the robot carefully folds towels one by one, handling each item with steady, deliberate movements and stacking them neatly, showcasing its ability to manage unfamiliar household objects through intuitive spoken instructions. Helix’s architecture consists of two core components: System 1 (S1), a fast visuomotor policy that executes real-time actions, and System 2 (S2), a slower, pretrained vision-language model responsible for scene and language comprehension. This design allows the robot to balance quick, precise movements with complex reasoning. The AI model controls the robot’s upper body with high dexterity, enabling fluid wrist, torso, head, and
robothumanoid-robotAI-roboticsmachine-learningautomationvision-language-action-modelrobotics-control-systemsNew robot grip twists, turns, and rolls objects in tight spaces
Yale University researchers have developed a novel robotic hand, called the Sphinx, that significantly enhances a robot’s ability to grasp and rotate objects in tight, complex spaces. Unlike traditional robotic wrists that rely on three degrees of freedom (roll, pitch, yaw) but are mechanically complex and positioned away from the object, the Sphinx integrates these motions into a single spherical mechanism. This design allows the robot to perform precise maneuvers—such as twisting open jars, turning door handles, or screwing in light bulbs—more efficiently and closer to the object without moving the entire arm. Notably, the mechanism operates without sensors or cameras, relying purely on its mechanical design to achieve smooth, multi-axis rotations. This innovation addresses a major limitation in robotics by enabling machines to work effectively in cluttered or unpredictable environments, bridging the gap between industrial robots and adaptable robots suitable for homes, hospitals, and disaster zones. The Sphinx’s ability to handle delicate and complex tasks in confined spaces represents a significant step
roboticsrobotic-handrobot-gripYale-Universityrobotic-manipulationautomationrobotic-innovationNorth American robot orders steady in the first half of 2025, reports A3 - The Robot Report
The North American robotics industry showed signs of recovery in the first half of 2025 after a slow 2024, according to the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). Robot orders increased by 4.3% and revenue rose 7.5% compared to the same period in 2024, signaling renewed investment in automation despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges. The automotive sector led growth with a 34% increase in units ordered year-over-year, while the non-automotive sector—including life sciences, electronics, plastics, and rubber—accounted for 56% of total robot orders in Q2, reflecting broader trends such as reshoring, labor shortages, and the drive for operational efficiency. In Q2 2025 alone, 8,571 robots worth $513 million were ordered, marking a 9% increase in units from Q2 2024. Life sciences/pharmaceuticals/biomedical and semiconductors/electronics sectors showed the strongest growth, with
roboticsautomationcollaborative-robotsautomotive-industrylife-sciencesmanufacturingindustrial-robotsABB, Regal Rexnord partner on 7th axis - The Robot Report
Regal Rexnord Corporation has partnered with ABB Robotics to integrate its Thomson Movotrak Cobot Transfer Units (CTUs) as the first certified 7th axis technology within ABB’s partner ecosystem. This collaboration enables ABB’s GoFa cobots, which handle payloads up to 12kg, to be easily deployed across multiple workstations with significantly reduced programming and integration time. Regal Rexnord has adapted mounting hardware, developed a plug-and-play wiring harness, and programmed interfaces compatible with ABB’s software tools, allowing certified ABB developers to control the Thomson CTU directly via ABB’s FlexPendant interface. The Thomson Movotrak CTU extends cobot reach up to 10 meters and offers flexible mounting options on floors, walls, or ceilings. It includes safety features like collision detection and supports a Freedrive mode for easier training and installation, thereby increasing productivity and reducing downtime. By integrating components from Regal Rexnord’s portfolio—including Boston Gear gearheads, Huco couplings, and Koll
robotindustrial-robotscobotsautomationlinear-motion-technologyABB-RoboticsRegal-RexnordLearn about the state of the robotics industry at RoboBusiness - The Robot Report
RoboBusiness 2025, taking place October 15-16 in Santa Clara, California, will feature a keynote panel discussing the current state of the rapidly evolving robotics industry. Industry experts, including Sanjay Aggarwal (venture partner at F-Prime Capital), Jon Battles (VP of technology strategy at Cobot), Amit Goel (director of product management for autonomous machines at NVIDIA), and Brian Gaunt (VP of Digital Transformation at DHL Supply Chain), will explore what is working in robotics, the challenges faced, and emerging trends shaping the future. The session promises a candid, experience-driven conversation on breakthroughs, barriers, and market insights. The event is a premier gathering for developers and suppliers of commercial robots, produced by WTWH Media, which also organizes The Robot Report and other robotics-focused conferences. RoboBusiness 2025 will host over 60 speakers, a startup workshop, the Pitchfire competition, and extensive networking opportunities. More than 100 exhibitors will showcase the latest robotics technologies and
roboticsautomationAIautonomous-machinesNVIDIA-Jetsondigital-transformationsupply-chain-roboticsRobots pack groceries in record-time at fully automated warehouse
Ocado’s fully automated warehouse system, known as the Hive, revolutionizes online grocery fulfillment by using fleets of AI-controlled robots to pick and pack orders in record time. Operating within a massive 3D grid holding thousands of grocery items, these bots move at speeds up to 9 miles per hour, communicating with a central AI system multiple times per second to efficiently collect products. Robotic arms then pack orders using computer vision and deep learning, arranging items to maximize space and protect fragile goods. This process can complete a 50-item order in just five minutes—six times faster than traditional manual picking. The Hive’s technology integrates artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation, supported by a digital twin—a virtual replica of the warehouse—that enables Ocado to simulate operations, optimize efficiency, and plan delivery routes without disrupting real-world activity. The system’s modular design allows it to scale flexibly, accommodating various warehouse sizes and locations, while storing up to 78 percent more products than typical supermarkets. This results
roboticsautomationAIwarehouse-automationdigital-twinsmart-logisticsgrocery-fulfillmentChina reports 5% industrial robot installation growth as US, EU fall
In 2024, China’s industrial robot installations grew by 5% to approximately 290,000 units, capturing 54% of the global market, up from 51% in 2023. This growth occurred despite a global decline in robot installations, with Japan, the US, and the EU experiencing decreases of 7%, 9%, and 6% respectively. China’s surge is driven by its strategic push to upgrade manufacturing through automation, shifting from labor-intensive methods to technology-driven growth. In the first half of 2025, China’s industrial robot production rose 35.6% year-on-year, reaching nearly 370,000 units. The country also improved its global robot density ranking, moving to third place with 470 robots per 10,000 workers in 2023, up from ninth place in 2020. Beyond traditional sectors like electronics and automotive, China is expanding robot adoption into general industries, which accounted for 53% of installations in 202
industrial-robotsautomationmanufacturing-technologyrobotics-growthChina-robotics-marketAI-in-roboticsrobot-densityChina's 200 robots automate entire excavator production process
Guozi Robotics, a Hangzhou-based Chinese company, has deployed nearly 200 diverse robots to fully automate the excavator production process at TZ Group’s new factory. Their intelligent system integrates mobile-robot swarms, gantry robots, cobots, and turnover units to perform complex, high-mix manufacturing operations without re-tooling delays. Equipped with intelligent navigation, flexible collaboration, and multi-agent dispatching, these robots streamline production from assembly through final shipment. The project operates on Guozi’s proprietary Line-Side Control System (LCS) and Manufacturing Execution System (MES), enabling seamless data integration between shop-floor devices and plant management. Guozi’s heavy-duty robot families, including ANTS and PICKING robots, have already been implemented in leading construction machinery factories worldwide, such as Zoomlion, XCMG, and Sany. Their AI-driven robotic control system (RCS) coordinates hundreds of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) with centimetre-level accuracy, supporting dynamic storage
roboticsautomationsmart-manufacturingindustrial-robotsintelligent-logisticscollaborative-robotsmobile-robot-swarmsGuozi Robotics provides a range of automation for TZ Group greenfield factory - The Robot Report
Guozi Robotics has implemented an advanced intelligent production and logistics automation system at TZ Group’s new greenfield factory, deploying nearly 200 diverse robots to automate the entire excavator manufacturing process and logistics network. This comprehensive automation addresses TZ Group’s challenges related to high-mix, low-volume production and limited operational flexibility, streamlining every step from production to final shipment. The system includes heavy-duty ANTS robots, picking robots, mobile robot swarms with dynamic path planning, gantry robots, collaborative robots, turnover units, and custom devices, all integrated to perform complex operations without retooling delays. The automation project runs on Guozi’s proprietary Line-Side Control System (LCS) and manufacturing execution system (MES), facilitating seamless data integration between shop-floor devices and plant management. Guozi’s AI-driven robot control system (RCS) coordinates hundreds of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) with centimeter-level precision, enabling multiple call-for-parts modes and dynamic storage combined with smart picking
roboticsautomationmobile-robotsAGVsmanufacturing-execution-systemcollaborative-robotssmart-factoryRobot drummer nails complex songs with 90% human-like precision
Researchers from SUPSI, IDSIA, and Politecnico di Milano have developed Robot Drummer, a humanoid robot capable of playing complex drum patterns with over 90% human-like rhythmic precision. Unlike typical humanoid robots designed for practical tasks, this project explores creative arts by enabling the robot to perform entire drum tracks across genres such as jazz, rock, and metal. The system translates music into a “rhythmic contact chain,” a sequence of precisely timed drum strikes, allowing the robot to learn human-like drumming techniques including stick switching, cross-arm hits, and movement optimization. The development began from an informal conversation and progressed through machine learning simulations on the G1 humanoid robot. Robot Drummer not only replicates timing but also plans upcoming strikes and dynamically reassigns drumsticks, showing promise for real-time adaptation and improvisation. The researchers aim to transition the system from simulation to physical hardware and envision robotic musicians joining live performances, potentially revolutionizing how rhythm and timing skills are taught
robothumanoid-robotmachine-learningrobotic-musiciansrobotic-drummingartificial-intelligenceautomationRobots Will Soon Become Part of Our Construction Force
The article discusses the emerging role of robots in the construction industry, highlighting their ability to optimize building processes through data-driven precision. Specifically, it focuses on a robot designed to enhance brick wall construction by improving efficiency and ensuring the structural longevity of the walls. This innovation exemplifies how automation and robotics can address traditional construction challenges by leveraging computational power for better planning and execution. By integrating robots into construction tasks, the industry can benefit from increased accuracy, reduced labor costs, and potentially faster project completion times. The article suggests that such technological advancements will soon make robots a standard part of construction workforces, transforming how buildings are erected and maintained. However, the content provided is limited and does not elaborate on the specific technologies used or the broader implications for the construction sector.
robotsconstruction-robotsautomationrobotics-in-constructionsmart-constructionindustrial-robotsbuilding-technologyAmtenbrink deploys Teqram's EasyGrinder to cut 1,500 parts a day - The Robot Report
Friedrich Amtenbrink GmbH, a German steel processing company with over 55 years of experience, has deployed Teqram BV’s EasyGrinder grinding robot to automate the post-processing of up to 1,500 flame-cut and plasma-cut parts daily. The EasyGrinder handles components ranging from 3/4 inch to 4 inches without complex programming, performing tasks such as slag removal, edge breaking, bevel grinding, and part marking autonomously after an initial shot blasting step. This automation has streamlined a previously time-consuming and physically demanding manual process involving multiple handling steps. The EasyGrinder’s advanced EasyEye 3D vision system and AI-based controller enable it to recognize pallets, stacks, and product geometries automatically, eliminating the need for manual programming. Friedrich Amtenbrink highlighted the robot’s efficiency by citing a batch of 400 heavy components requiring dot-peening, which the EasyGrinder completed overnight—work that would have taken at least two manual shifts. The
robotautomationmanufacturinggrinding-robotAI-vision-systemindustrial-roboticsproduction-efficiencyPrismaX launches teleop platform for robotic arms - The Robot Report
PrismaX, a San Francisco-based startup with $11 million in funding, has launched a teleoperation platform for robotic arms aimed at bridging the gap between robotics and mainstream adoption. The platform allows users to remotely operate robotic arms and serves as a foundational step toward a future where humans and robots collaborate to enhance human capabilities. PrismaX’s co-founder and CEO Bayley Wang emphasized that this tele-op system is a proof of concept for a labor market where humans and robots work hand in hand, with the company focusing initially on teleoperations and visual data collection to train AI models. PrismaX has outlined a roadmap aligned with the robotics industry's evolution: in the short term, teleoperators will gather data and gain experience; in the mid-term, operators will manage fleets of robots performing real tasks; and in the long term, robots will achieve high autonomy powered by foundational AI models. The company envisions a self-reinforcing "data flywheel" where increased robot operation generates valuable datasets that improve AI,
roboticsteleoperationrobotic-armsAIautomationteleop-platformrobotics-industryLearn about the first humanoid deployments at RoboBusiness 2025 - The Robot Report
The article discusses the upcoming keynote panel at RoboBusiness 2025, titled “Lessons Learned from First Humanoid Deployments,” which will focus on the current state and future prospects of humanoid robots in commercial use. The session, scheduled for October 15 at the Santa Clara Convention Center, will feature industry leaders sharing candid insights about the successes, challenges, and engineering lessons from early humanoid robot deployments. Agility Robotics is highlighted for testing its Digit humanoid robot with companies like GXO Logistics and Spanx, illustrating real-world applications. Key panelists include Jim Fan from NVIDIA, who has a strong background in AI and robotics research, including work on multimodal models and robotic manipulation; Katlyn Lewicke of GXO Logistics, who brings expertise in global automation strategy and logistics; and Melonee Wise, chief product officer at Agility Robotics, with extensive experience in autonomous robots and robotics industry leadership. The panel aims to provide a comprehensive view of how humanoid robots are being integrated into commercial
roboticshumanoid-robotsAIautomationrobotics-deploymentAgility-RoboticsRoboBusiness-2025Construction robotics finds interest, but adoption wavers, reports BuiltWorlds - The Robot Report
The construction industry is showing growing interest in robotics as a means to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and scalability on job sites, according to a recent report by BuiltWorlds Inc. The report highlights that contractors, owners, and technology providers are exploring robotics for tasks such as layout, drilling, and material transport, integrated with connected equipment and data-driven decision-making. This reflects a broader industry trend toward intelligent, tech-enabled workflows that connect field execution with digital planning and performance optimization. BuiltWorlds, a Chicago-based organization serving the building and infrastructure sectors, surveyed a diverse range of contractors and found that attitudes toward construction robotics have significantly improved, with positive evaluations rising from 74% in 2024 to over 95% in 2025. Despite the increased enthusiasm, actual deployment of construction robotics has slightly declined, with 46% of respondents reporting use of robotics or automated machinery in 2025 compared to 65% in 2024. This decrease is attributed not to waning interest but to
roboticsconstruction-roboticsautomationconstruction-technologyindustrial-robotsrobotics-adoptionsmart-constructionDriverless Trucks Now Certified To Drive Day and Night
Aurora’s commercial self-driving trucks have recently received certification to operate during both day and night, marking a significant milestone in autonomous vehicle technology. This validation expands the operational capabilities of Aurora’s driverless trucks, allowing for continuous, around-the-clock freight transport. The development promises to enhance efficiency and flexibility within the American transportation industry by enabling longer haul times without the limitations imposed by daylight-only operation. Looking ahead, Aurora plans further improvements and expansions to its autonomous trucking technology. These advancements are expected to bolster the reliability and scalability of driverless freight solutions, potentially transforming logistics and supply chain operations across the United States. The certification for night driving represents a crucial step toward broader adoption of autonomous trucks, which could lead to reduced costs, improved safety, and increased productivity in American transport.
robotautonomous-vehiclesself-driving-truckstransportation-technologyautomationdriverless-technologycommercial-trucksFundamental Research Labs nabs $30M+ to build AI agents across verticals
Fundamental Research Labs, an applied AI research company formerly known as Altera, has raised $33 million in a Series A funding round led by Prosus, with participation from Stripe co-founder Patrick Collison. The company operates with a unique structure, maintaining multiple teams focused on diverse AI applications across different verticals, including gaming, prosumer apps, core research, and platform development. Founded by Dr. Robert Yang, a former MIT faculty member, the startup aims to be a “historical” company by eschewing typical startup norms and is already generating revenue by charging users for its AI agents after a seven-day trial. Among its products, Fundamental Research Labs offers a general-purpose consumer assistant and a spreadsheet-based AI agent called Shortcut, which has demonstrated impressive performance by outperforming first-year analysts from McKinsey and Goldman Sachs in head-to-head evaluations. The company has raised over $40 million to date and is focused on productivity applications as a primary value driver, with long-term ambitions to develop
robotAI-agentsautomationproductivity-appsdigital-humansmachine-learningrobotics-developmentFundamental Research Labs nabs $30M to build AI agents across verticals
Fundamental Research Labs, an applied AI research company formerly known as Altera, has secured $30 million in Series A funding led by Prosus, with participation from Stripe CEO Patrick Collison. The company operates with an unconventional structure, maintaining multiple teams focused on diverse AI applications across verticals, including gaming, prosumer apps, core research, and platform development. Founded by Dr. Robert Yang, a former MIT faculty member, the startup aims to be a “historical” company rather than follow a typical startup model. It is already generating revenue by charging users for its AI agents after a seven-day trial period. Among its products is Shortcut, a spreadsheet-based AI agent described as a “superhuman excel agent” that outperforms first-year analysts from top firms like McKinsey and Goldman Sachs in accuracy and speed. The company’s offerings also include a general-purpose consumer assistant and other AI tools like Fairies. Prosus investment partner Sandeep Bakshi highlighted the team’s mission-driven
robotartificial-intelligenceAI-agentsautomationproductivity-appsdigital-humansAI-researchBeyond the assembly line - swarm robotics emerge - The Robot Report
The article "Beyond the assembly line - swarm robotics emerge" discusses the innovative application of swarm robotics in large-scale manufacturing, particularly for constructing complex aerospace structures like the H2Clipper, a revolutionary 1,000-foot-long, green lighter-than-air dirigible designed to transport liquid hydrogen and freight. Traditional assembly lines are impractical for such massive constructs due to their enormous spatial requirements. Inspired by the decentralized and adaptive behavior of ant colonies, the concept of swarm robotics was developed to enable multiple robots to autonomously coordinate and assemble large structures without centralized control, overcoming the limitations of linear manufacturing processes. Swarm robotics builds on principles of self-organizing systems observed in nature and extends beyond previous AI applications in software and drone coordination to physical construction tasks. The article highlights a patented hierarchical programming approach for these robots, progressing through three levels. Level 1 involves coordinated operation of ambulatory and stationary robots assembling the airship on the ground, laying the foundation for automated assembly without moving the structure until completion. Level
roboticsswarm-roboticsmanufacturing-technologyaerospacegenerative-AIautomationclean-energyFemale-founded semiconductor AI startup SixSense raises $8.5M
SixSense, a Singapore-based deep tech startup founded in 2018 by engineers Akanksha Jagwani (CTO) and Avni Agarwal (CEO), has developed an AI-powered platform that enables semiconductor manufacturers to predict and detect chip defects in real time on production lines. The startup recently raised $8.5 million in a Series A funding round led by Peak XV’s Surge, bringing its total funding to approximately $12 million. SixSense addresses a critical challenge in semiconductor manufacturing by converting vast amounts of raw production data—such as defect images and equipment signals—into actionable insights that help factories prevent quality issues and improve yield. The platform is designed for process engineers rather than data scientists, allowing them to fine-tune models and deploy solutions quickly without coding. Despite the semiconductor industry's reputation for precision, inspection processes remain largely manual and fragmented, with existing systems primarily displaying data without deep analysis. SixSense’s AI platform offers early warnings, root cause analysis, and failure prediction, enabling manufacturers to act
semiconductorAImanufacturingdefect-detectionautomationquality-controldeep-techFigure CEO teases video showing humanoid robot doing laundry
Figure AI’s CEO Brett Adcock recently showcased a video of their humanoid robot, Figure 02, performing laundry tasks such as picking up clothes and placing them into a washing machine. While the robot cannot fully operate the machine independently yet, this demonstration marks a significant step toward automating household chores. Figure 02 is powered by Helix, a generalist Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model that integrates perception, language, and human understanding to enable advanced upper-body manipulation and multi-robot collaboration. The company plans to begin home trials of Figure 02 later this year, although its current focus remains on industrial applications, including a recent trial at BMW’s South Carolina facility and tasks like sorting plastic bags on conveyor belts. Figure 02 competes with other humanoid robots such as 1X Technologies’ Neo Gamma, designed for domestic use, and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas, which targets industrial environments. Adcock and his team aim to position Figure 02 for both industrial and home settings
roboticshumanoid-robotautomationAIindustrial-robotshome-roboticsmulti-robot-collaborationARMstrong Dex Shows Off Its Throwing Arm
The article titled "ARMstrong Dex Shows Off Its Throwing Arm" highlights the complexity involved in accurately throwing an object, a task often underestimated. It showcases the ARMstrong Dex, a robotic system that demonstrates advanced technological capabilities through its precise and well-aimed throw. The key takeaway is the ARMstrong Dex's ability to perform a task requiring fine motor skills and coordination, emphasizing the sophistication of modern robotics in mimicking human actions. The article underscores the technological progress in robotics, particularly in achieving accuracy and control in dynamic movements like throwing.
robotroboticsrobotic-armautomationARMstrong-Dextechnologythrowing-mechanismSkild AI is giving robots a brain - The Robot Report
Skild AI has introduced its vision for a generalized "Skild Brain," a versatile AI system designed to control a wide range of robots across different environments and tasks. This development represents a significant step in Physical AI, which integrates artificial intelligence with physical robotic systems capable of sensing, acting, and learning in real-world settings. Skild AI’s approach addresses Moravec’s paradox by enabling robots not only to perform traditionally "easy" tasks (like dancing or kung-fu) but also to tackle complex, everyday challenges such as climbing stairs under difficult conditions or assembling intricate items, tasks that require advanced vision and reasoning about physical interactions. Since closing a $300 million Series A funding round just over a year ago, Skild AI has expanded its team to over 25 employees and raised a total of $435 million. Physical AI is gaining momentum across the robotics industry, with other companies like Physical Intelligence pursuing similar goals of creating a universal robotic brain. This topic will be a major focus at RoboBusiness 202
robotroboticsartificial-intelligencephysical-AIrobot-controlmachine-learningautomationJ.P. Morgan reports on U.S. investment trends in applied tech - The Robot Report
J.P. Morgan’s recent “Applied Tech Report” highlights ongoing investment growth in U.S. sectors such as robotics, semiconductors, space, and defense, despite macroeconomic challenges like higher interest rates and market pressures. While IPOs and early-stage investments have remained steady or declined, market consolidation and strategic partnerships underscore confidence in the long-term potential of applied technologies. Government funding plays a significant role, with U.S. federal spending reaching $338 billion in fiscal year 2024, driven by programs like the CHIPS Act and Department of Defense contracts to startups. Venture funding has decreased since 2021, but federal support, especially for AI research and development, is expected to increase. Capital investment in robotics startups has notably increased from about $7 billion in 2020 to over $12 billion in 2024, largely due to advances in AI and rising demand for automation to address labor shortages and productivity needs. Robotics investments tend to focus on later-stage companies requiring substantial capital to scale,
robotrobotics-startupsautonomous-systemssemiconductor-manufacturingdefense-technologyartificial-intelligenceautomationChina’s robot fighters steal the spotlight at WAIC 2025 showcase
At the WAIC 2025 event in Shanghai, China’s humanoid robotics sector showcased significant advancements, drawing widespread attention with a highlight being a dynamic boxing match between two life-sized Unitree robots. The Unitree G1 robot, notable for its compact 1.32-meter frame, agility, and powerful 120 Nm torque joints, demonstrated human-like fighting abilities with precise strikes and defensive maneuvers. This display underscored important progress in robotics design, motion control, and full-body coordination, impressing both experts and online audiences. The event featured over 150 robots and 60 new intelligent models from more than 80 enterprises, reflecting China’s rapid growth in embodied intelligence and practical robot applications. Innovations included Tencent Robotics X’s VLA language model-powered dual-arm robot capable of real-time task adaptation, Unitree’s third-generation humanoid R1 with multimodal voice and vision integration, and heavy-duty industrial humanoids like Cyborg-R01. Experts emphasized that integrating large language models with
roboticshumanoid-robotsrobot-fightersAI-roboticsautomationUnitree-RoboticsWAIC-2025Google Trains Robot AI With Table Tennis
Google’s DeepMind has developed a system where two robot arms continuously play table tennis against each other. This setup serves as a training ground for robot AI, allowing the machines to learn and improve their skills through constant practice and real-time interaction. The fast-paced and dynamic nature of table tennis challenges the robots to develop advanced motor control, precise timing, and adaptive strategies, which are crucial capabilities for more complex robotic tasks. By using table tennis as a training environment, DeepMind aims to advance the field of robotics by enhancing AI’s ability to handle unpredictable and rapidly changing scenarios. This approach highlights the potential for robots to acquire sophisticated physical skills through self-play and iterative learning, paving the way for more autonomous and versatile robots in various applications beyond gaming, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries.
robotartificial-intelligenceroboticsDeepMindrobot-armsmachine-learningautomationExploring the future of humanoid robotics with Novanta
In episode 205 of The Robot Report Podcast, Nick Damiano, senior business development manager at Novanta Robotics and Automation, discusses the company's innovative approach to enhancing safety in humanoid robotics. Based in Bedford, Massachusetts, Novanta focuses on achieving component-level safety ratings and implementing advanced joint-level control to ensure safer robot operation. Damiano highlights the critical role of integrating high-performance sensors and drives in overcoming the technical challenges associated with developing safe humanoid robots. Novanta Robotics and Automation, a leader in motion control solutions since 2022, collaborates with top robotics platforms across various industries by providing key components such as drives, encoders, motors, and force torque sensors. These technologies aim to reduce risks and costs while accelerating time-to-market for robotics developers. The episode emphasizes Novanta’s commitment to addressing unique challenges in robotics safety and shaping the future of humanoid robot development through cutting-edge motion control innovations.
roboticshumanoid-robotsmotion-controlsensorsautomationsafety-in-roboticsrobotics-innovationUnitree Releases Cheapest Humanoid Robot Yet
The article announces that Chinese robotics company Unitree has introduced the Unitree R1, the most affordable humanoid robot currently available on the market. This new robot significantly undercuts the price of existing humanoid robots, which typically cost tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Unitree R1 aims to make humanoid robotics more accessible to a broader range of users and industries. While the article highlights the competitive pricing of the Unitree R1, it does not provide detailed specifications or capabilities of the robot. The key takeaway is that Unitree is positioning itself as a leader in cost-effective humanoid robotics, potentially disrupting the market by offering advanced robotics technology at a fraction of the usual cost. Further information on the robot’s features and performance would be needed to fully assess its impact.
robothumanoid-robotUnitreerobotics-technologyaffordable-robotsautomationAI-roboticsDoosan Robotics acquires a majority stake of U.S.-based ONExia for $25.9M - The Robot Report
Doosan Robotics has acquired an 89.59% majority stake in U.S.-based robotics system integrator ONExia Inc. for approximately $25.9 million (KRW 35.6 billion). ONExia, founded in 1984 and based in Exton, Pennsylvania, specializes in end-to-end automation services including system design, manufacturing, and implementation across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and packaging. The company has developed collaborative robots focused on end-of-line processes like palletizing and packaging, achieving around 30% average annual sales growth. Doosan aims to leverage ONExia’s 25 years of automation data and project expertise to enhance its AI capabilities and solution development, marking a strategic shift from hardware-centric products to integrated AI and software platforms. This acquisition is part of Doosan Robotics’ broader strategy to strengthen its global presence and accelerate innovation in intelligent robotics. The company, a recognized leader in collaborative robots (cobots), is increasing investments in research and development
roboticsautomationAIcollaborative-robotsDoosan-Roboticssystem-integrationmanufacturing-technologyDusty Robotics adopts Hexagon’s Leica AT500 laser tracker
Dusty Robotics has integrated Hexagon’s Leica Absolute Tracker AT500 into its FieldPrinter 2 system to enhance setup speed, usability, and maintain its 1/16″ accuracy standard for applications in data centers, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. The AT500’s compact, durable design and long-range measurement capability (up to 320 meters diameter) improve Dusty’s automated layout functions by offering greater operational efficiency and an alternative to traditional total station methods. Key features include IP54 dust and water protection, hot-swappable batteries, a controllerless design for streamlined setup, and the PowerLock system that maintains tracking even if the measurement process is temporarily blocked. This integration also advances Dusty’s floor elevation measurement capabilities, enabling efficient assessment of flatness and floor deviations critical for mission-sensitive environments. By embedding the lightweight LMF-e interface, the system allows dynamic trajectory correction without requiring complex industrial Ethernet real-time features, simplifying operations and reducing system complexity. Dusty will offer the AT500 as an additional tracker
robotlaser-trackerconstruction-technologyautomationprecision-measurementindustrial-roboticsmanufacturing-intelligenceSemiconductor, EV autonomy testing becomes more efficient with Nigel AI
Emerson has developed Nigel AI Advisor, an AI-powered tool designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of engineering innovations, particularly in complex test and measurement applications across industries such as semiconductors, transportation, and electronics. Integrated into Emerson’s flagship NI LabVIEW and NI TestStand software, Nigel leverages advanced large language models trained specifically on NI software to provide engineers with contextual advice, automation assistance, and detailed recommendations for improving code and test execution. The tool allows users to interact via natural language prompts, delivering precise engineering-format responses like tables and graphs, thereby enabling faster and more informed decision-making while safeguarding user data on a secure cloud platform. Nigel AI Advisor is tailored to test application development, distinguishing it from general-purpose AI assistants by being built on decades of trusted test knowledge and data. It can answer questions about programming and automation concepts, help users develop complex automated sequences, and even modify and execute test runs through interaction with the TestStand API. First unveiled at the NI Connect conference, Nigel represents
robotautomationAIsemiconductortestingengineeringsoftwareLidris robot makes 3D floating illustrations inside drinks in real time
Suntory unveiled “Lidris,” an innovative robot that creates three-dimensional floating illustrations inside beverages in real time, at Expo 2025 in Osaka. The system injects food-safe, natural pigment-based inks—such as lycopene from tomatoes—into drinks like lemonade, forming suspended images that can remain visible for over an hour indoors. The technology integrates robotics, food science, and fluid mechanics to maintain the shape of the designs within the liquid, offering a novel and interactive drinking experience. Visitors at Suntory’s Park Café pavilion witnessed illustrations, including the fair’s mascot, appearing inside their drinks as they were served. Lidris is designed as a customizable beverage platform, allowing adjustments to flavors, colors, and alcohol content, making it suitable for a range of settings from private events to commercial venues. Its compact size (about 50 cm square) and simplified manual operation enable easy use by part-time staff, facilitating deployment in small cafés or event spaces. Beyond hospitality, the technology holds
robotroboticsbeverage-technologyfluid-mechanicsfood-scienceautomation3D-printingRobots can sense when something might slip from grip with new method
Engineers at the University of Surrey have developed a novel, bio-inspired method enabling robots to sense and prevent objects from slipping during manipulation by predicting slip events and adjusting their movements in real-time. Unlike traditional robotic grip strategies that rely solely on increasing grip force—which can damage delicate items—the new approach mimics human behavior by modulating the robot’s trajectory, such as slowing down or repositioning, to maintain a secure hold without excessive squeezing. This method, demonstrated through a predictive control system powered by a learned tactile forward model, allows robots to anticipate slip risks continuously and adapt accordingly. The research, published in Nature Machine Intelligence, shows that trajectory modulation significantly outperforms conventional grip-force-based slip control in certain scenarios and generalizes well to objects and movement paths not included in training. This advancement holds promise for enhancing robotic dexterity and reliability across various applications, including healthcare (handling surgical tools), manufacturing (assembling delicate parts), logistics (sorting awkward packages), and home assistance. The study highlights the importance of
roboticsrobotic-manipulationslip-preventionautomationtactile-sensingpredictive-controlbio-inspired-roboticsRoboBusiness announces 2025 agenda
RoboBusiness 2025, scheduled for October 15-16 at the Santa Clara Convention Center, has unveiled its comprehensive conference agenda. Established in 2004, RoboBusiness is a leading event for commercial robotics developers and suppliers, produced by WTWH Media. The event will feature over 60 speakers, a startup workshop, a robotics startup competition, networking receptions, and more than 100 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge robotics technologies and solutions. The conference will include six tracks, with new additions in physical AI and humanoids, an expanded field robotics track, and sessions on business development, enabling technologies, and design best practices. Notable companies participating include ABB, Amazon Robotics, NVIDIA, and Intuitive Surgical. Keynote presentations will highlight significant industry trends and innovations. NVIDIA’s Deepu Talla will open with a talk on “Physical AI,” emphasizing the integration of generative AI into robotics to enable adaptable, intelligent autonomy beyond traditional automation. Another session will focus on early commercial deployments of humanoid robots
roboticsAIhumanoid-robotsphysical-AIrobotics-conferenceedge-AIautomationTesla is reportedly behind on its pledge to build 5,000 Optimus bots this year
Tesla is significantly behind its goal to produce at least 5,000 Optimus humanoid robots in 2025, having manufactured only a few hundred units by mid-year, according to two sources. This shortfall suggests Tesla will either need to accelerate production substantially or delay its target. The lag comes amid broader financial challenges for Tesla, including a reported decline in second-quarter earnings driven by falling electric vehicle sales, reduced regulatory credit income, and lower solar and energy storage revenues. Despite the current production delays, CEO Elon Musk reaffirmed Tesla’s long-term ambitions for the Optimus robot during the recent Q2 earnings call, announcing plans to begin production of the latest Optimus 3 model by early 2026. Musk expressed confidence in scaling production rapidly, aiming to reach one million units annually within five years. However, Musk’s history of optimistic timelines—such as previous unfulfilled projections about Tesla’s autonomous vehicle fleet—suggests that these targets may face similar challenges in realization.
roboticsTeslaOptimus-robothumanoid-robotsrobot-productionautomationrobotics-industry"Dark Factories" — Chinese Automakers Living Tesla's Dream - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the contrast between Tesla’s early struggles with factory automation and the current advancements made by Chinese automakers in this area. Tesla initially aimed to fully automate its Model 3 production line but faced significant challenges that delayed mass production. Ultimately, Tesla had to revert to manual labor to stabilize production, and while automation has since increased, Tesla’s factories are still not fully automated. In contrast, Chinese automakers, exemplified by the young company Zeekr (founded in 2021), have embraced extensive automation to the point of operating “dark factories”—highly automated facilities that can run with minimal human presence, even with the lights off. Zeekr’s welding workshop reportedly employs over 800 robots simultaneously, enabling near-complete lights-out production and an annual output capacity of around 300,000 vehicles. This reflects China’s leading position in deploying industrial robots at scale within the automotive industry, surpassing other countries in automation integration.
roboticsautomationmanufacturingelectric-vehiclesindustrial-robotsautomotive-industrysmart-factoriesTeqram deploys automated grinding robot in 2 states with AMP - The Robot Report
Teqram, a Dutch robotics manufacturer, has deployed its AI-powered EasyGrinder robotic grinding systems for the first time in the U.S. at Accurate Metal Products (AMP), a precision steel fabricator with locations in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Rockford, Illinois. The EasyGrinder automates the physically demanding task of surface preparation and finishing of flame- and plasma-cut steel parts, achieving surface preparation levels SSPC-SP5/SP11. Utilizing artificial intelligence and advanced 3D vision, the system autonomously identifies, picks up, and processes parts with an automatic tool changer and an integrated flipping mechanism (EasyFlipper) to clean both sides. It removes slag, lead-ins, rounds edges, and cleans interior diameters without requiring programming. AMP, an ISO 9001-certified company serving industries such as mining, energy, agriculture, and defense, views the EasyGrinder as a strategic addition to its technology portfolio that enhances precision and frees skilled tradespeople for higher-value work rather than replacing them
robotautomationAIrobotic-grindingmetal-fabricationindustrial-roboticsmanufacturing-technologyNew soft robot arm scrubs toilets and dishes with drill-level force
Researchers at Northeastern University have developed SCCRUB, a novel soft robotic arm designed to tackle tough cleaning tasks with drill-level scrubbing power while maintaining safety around humans. Unlike traditional rigid industrial robots, SCCRUB uses flexible yet strong components called TRUNC cells—torsionally rigid universal couplings—that allow the arm to bend and flex while transmitting torque comparable to a handheld drill. This combination enables the robot to apply significant force to remove stubborn grime without posing risks typical of hard robotic arms. Equipped with a counter-rotating scrubber brush and guided by a deep learning-based controller, SCCRUB can clean challenging messes such as microwaved ketchup and fruit preserves on glass dishes and toilet seats, removing over 99% of residue in lab tests. The counter-rotating brush design helps maintain firm pressure and stability by canceling frictional forces, enhancing cleaning effectiveness while preserving the arm’s soft and safe nature. The research team envisions expanding SCCRUB’s capabilities to assist humans
robotsoft-roboticsrobotic-armmachine-learningautomationcleaning-robothuman-robot-interactionARM Institute seeks developers for RoboticsCareer.org - The Robot Report
The ARM Institute, a Pittsburgh-based consortium funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and part of the Manufacturing USA network, is seeking developers to enhance RoboticsCareer.org, its national platform launched in 2021. RoboticsCareer.org serves as a comprehensive database connecting employers and job seekers with nearly 17,000 robotics training and education programs from over 2,400 providers across the U.S., aligned with the institute’s Robotics Competency Framework. Recent updates have improved employer features such as talent search automation, e-mail notifications, and endorsement badges for job seekers, based on input from more than 450 industry partners. The ARM Institute is now requesting proposals to develop an automated system to collect, validate, and maintain the extensive database, including program attributes like degree type and delivery format (online or hybrid). The system must support easy access for analytics and reporting. Proposals will be evaluated on technical approach, experience, accuracy, cost, scalability, and maintainability, with the ARM Institute retaining ownership of any
roboticsARM-InstituteRoboticsCareer.orgrobotics-trainingautomationmanufacturing-technologyworkforce-developmentTesla Diner opens in LA with robots serving Cyberburgers, popcorn
Tesla has opened its first-ever retro-futuristic Diner and Drive-In in Los Angeles at 7001 West Santa Monica Boulevard, transforming a historic Route 66 site into a 9,300-square-foot stainless steel hub that combines 1950s diner nostalgia with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology. The two-story, flying saucer-shaped building features neon-lit décor, roller-skating carhop servers, a rooftop bar with views of Hollywood, and two large LED movie screens that create a modern drive-in experience by syncing audio to Tesla car stereos. The diner operates 24/7, catering to both late-night visitors and early commuters. A key highlight of the location is its 75 V4 Supercharger stalls, among the largest Tesla charging hubs, supporting fast charging speeds up to 250 kW for most Tesla models and up to 325 kW for the Cybertruck. While all EVs can charge here, Tesla owners enjoy perks like ordering food through their car’s
robotsTeslaelectric-vehiclessuperchargersautomationIoTenergy-technologyHadrian raises $260M to build out automated factories for space and defense parts
Hadrian, an automated manufacturing startup focused on aerospace and defense parts, has raised $260 million to expand its advanced manufacturing capabilities. The company aims to modernize American manufacturing by using high-precision CNC machining—capable of tolerances measured in microns—and plans to diversify into welding, casting, additive manufacturing, and other processes. The new funding will support the construction of a new Arizona facility, “Factory 3,” expected to quadruple machining throughput by late 2025, as well as the expansion of Hadrian’s 500,000-square-foot headquarters and R&D space in Torrance, California. Hadrian’s business model extends beyond selling parts to offering “factories as a service,” providing dedicated manufacturing capacity for customers in aerospace, defense, maritime, and munitions sectors. CEO Power emphasized the urgency of reshoring domestic production, framing it as a critical national security and industrial imperative. The $260 million funding round was led by Founders Fund and Lux Capital, with participation
robotautomationmanufacturingaerospacedefenseCNC-machiningindustrial-roboticsAn interview with Nicolai Ommer: the RoboCupSoccer Small Size League - Robohub
The article features an interview with Nicolai Ommer, an Executive Committee member of the RoboCup Small Size League (SSL), which is part of the international RoboCup initiative aimed at advancing intelligent robots, AI, and automation. The SSL involves teams of 11 small, cylindrical, wheeled robots that play soccer autonomously, with teams responsible for both hardware and software development. A central AI system processes data from an overhead vision system that tracks all robots and the ball, enabling teams to send commands to their robots. The robots can move up to 4 m/s and kick the ball at speeds up to 6.5 m/s, with recent rules reducing kick speed to enhance gameplay fairness and allow goalkeepers and defenders to intercept passes. A notable innovation in the SSL is the use of multiple independent auto referee systems to assist human referees in monitoring the fast-paced matches, particularly for fouls and collisions that are difficult to judge visually. These auto refs operate simultaneously and their decisions are combined via majority
robotroboticsRoboCupAIautomationautonomous-robotsrobot-soccer99.9% reliable robot vision studio completes week-long task in hours
Apera, a Canadian company, has developed Apera Forge, a web-based, AI-powered 4D vision design studio that significantly accelerates the development of vision-guided robotic (VGR) automation projects. This browser-based platform requires no hardware and enables industrial manufacturers to simulate robotic applications—including parts, grippers, robots, and cell environments—in minutes rather than days. By training AI neural networks through extensive digital cycles, Forge achieves over 99.9% reliability in object recognition and task performance, delivering deployable vision programs within 24 to 48 hours. This drastically reduces the time and risks traditionally involved in creating robotic cells for bin picking, material handling, and de-racking. The latest upgrades to Forge enhance its flexibility and simulation capabilities, supporting advanced robotic cell design with customizable camera placement, bin positioning, and obstacle integration to better replicate real-world conditions. Notably, Forge now supports end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) mounted camera configurations (Eye-in-Hand), allowing users to
robotAIvision-guided-roboticsautomationindustrial-manufacturingsimulationAI-trainingPharm Robotics advances automated dairy cow healthcare - The Robot Report
Pharm Robotics is advancing automated healthcare for dairy cows through its robotic system, Sureshot, which automates the delivery of pharmaceuticals such as vaccines and reproductive products as cows enter the milking parlor. Utilizing RFID scanners, the system identifies each cow, retrieves its medical history, and autonomously administers individualized treatments via industrial robot arms. This automation reduces manual labor, ensures consistent treatment compliance, and automatically records inoculations in dairy management software linked to each cow’s RFID tag. Real-time alerts notify dairy managers of any errors, facilitating prompt intervention. Recent updates to Sureshot include the integration of a low-cost 3D vision system for precise injection site identification and the adoption of the FANUC CRX-20 collaborative robot, which enhances safety with sensor-based shot confirmation. A new machine learning-powered software stack accelerates shot-site acquisition, and injection tooling has been adapted to the updated hardware and software. These advancements have enabled fully automated simulated injections on model cows, marking significant progress toward full automation
roboticsautomationdairy-farmingRFID-technologymachine-learningcollaborative-robotsanimal-healthcareHumanoid robot allegedly graduates from a high school in China
A humanoid robot named Shuang Shuang, also called ‘Bright,’ participated in a high school graduation ceremony at Shuangshi High School in Fujian, China, where it walked across the stage, shook hands with a professor, and received a certificate. The event, part of the school’s 25th commencement, was met with cheers from students and faculty, and a video of the moment went viral, highlighting China’s growing enthusiasm and investment in robotics technology. This appearance reflects China’s broader push to develop and deploy advanced robots as part of its ambition to lead the global tech race. While Shuang Shuang’s participation was symbolic, there is no evidence that the robot completed any academic requirements or possesses intellectual capabilities akin to a human graduate. The robot’s presence at the ceremony underscores the increasing integration of automation into cultural and social milestones rather than a literal academic achievement. Globally, robotics development is accelerating, with competitors like the United States pursuing similar innovations, such as Tesla’s humanoid robot
robothumanoid-robotroboticsartificial-intelligenceautomationTesla-Optimussecurity-robotsAugmentus raises Series A+ funding to reduce robot programming complexity - The Robot Report
Augmentus, a company focused on simplifying robot programming, has raised SGD 11 million (approximately USD 11 million) in a Series A+ funding round to accelerate the deployment of its autonomous surface finishing and material removal solutions across the region. The company aims to use the funds to advance research and development in AI-driven, hyper-adaptive robotics capable of perceiving and responding in real-time to variations in chaotic, high-mix manufacturing environments. Augmentus offers an intelligent no-code robotics platform that integrates 3D scanning, automatic toolpath generation, and adaptive motion control, enabling manufacturers to automate complex industrial tasks without the need for manual coding or robotics expertise. Augmentus’ technology includes validated 3D scanning hardware optimized for different part sizes and precision requirements, such as structured-light sensors for smaller components and laser line profilers for larger, high-precision workpieces like aerospace parts. Their Scan-to-Path technology can generate robot programs within minutes, significantly reducing downtime and reliance on skilled programmers
roboticsautomationartificial-intelligence3D-scanningmanufacturingadaptive-roboticsindustrial-robotsRealbotix robot speaks 15 languages fluently to boost hospitality
Realbotix, a US-based company known for creating lifelike humanoid robots, has enhanced its AI-powered robot to fluently speak 15 languages and access an additional 147 languages and dialects via cloud support. This multilingual capability is designed to improve communication in industries such as healthcare, hospitality, travel, and tourism by engaging visitors and patients in their native languages. The humanoid robot aims to bridge communication gaps between staff and clients, providing immediate, natural speech assistance in settings like airports, hotels, museums, and healthcare facilities. In healthcare, the robot can act as a communication intermediary, interpreting patient concerns and relaying information to medical teams, thereby addressing support shortages. The integration of humanoid robots into various industries is expected to accelerate, driven by labor shortages and demand for automation. According to a Research and Markets report cited by EE News Europe, the global humanoid robot market is projected to grow from $2.93 billion in 2025 to $243.40 billion by 203
robothumanoid-robotAImultilingual-robothealthcare-roboticshospitality-technologyautomationViral video shows humanoid robot walking US streets like a star
The article highlights a recent viral video featuring Zion, a humanoid robot casually walking and interacting with pedestrians on Detroit’s 7 Mile Road. Developed by Art Cartwright, founder of Interactive Combat League, Zion was showcased as part of a promotional campaign for the upcoming RoboWar event. Zion’s lifelike movements and friendly handshakes amazed onlookers, sparking excitement and curiosity about the current state and future of robotics among everyday people, not just tech enthusiasts. The video quickly gained traction on social media, drawing comparisons to iconic sci-fi characters like Robocop and The Terminator, and confirming its authenticity through AI verification tools. Beyond the viral moment, Zion represents a broader vision to inspire younger generations about robotics and AI. Cartwright is actively mentoring Detroit youth, including 16-year-old Jacoby Wilson, in robotics technology, emphasizing accessibility and enthusiasm for innovation across all ages. This initiative aims to foster trust and interest in emerging technologies, signaling a cultural shift toward a more interactive, AI-driven future
robothumanoid-robotroboticsartificial-intelligenceautomationtechnology-innovationRoboWar-eventMusk's Long Term Plans Are Really Far Out - CleanTechnica
The article discusses Elon Musk's complex and often contradictory approach to his long-term plans and public persona. While Musk is known for impulsive decisions and contentious interactions—such as his rejected offer to assist in the Thai cave rescue and his public feud with former President Donald Trump—his long-term vision remains highly calculated, blending his unique worldview with data-driven insights and automation. Recently, Musk has escalated political involvement by launching a new political entity, the America Party, pledging support to select candidates, and criticizing legislation like the Senate’s Build Back Better bill for harming future industries. Musk's public disputes and erratic behavior have impacted the brands he leads, notably Tesla, SpaceX, and others. Institutional investors have expressed serious concerns about Tesla’s stock volatility, declining sales, and reputational issues linked to Musk’s actions outside his CEO role. A group holding 7.9 million Tesla shares called for reforms including clearer CEO time commitments, succession planning, and governance improvements to address these challenges. Overall
energyelectric-vehiclesTeslasubsidiesautomationself-driving-carsElon-MuskWorld’s first garage-built humanoid robot open to creators worldwide
K-Scale Labs, led by CEO Benjamin Bolte, is developing the world’s first garage-built, open-source humanoid robot called the K-Bot, aimed at making advanced robotics accessible to everyday consumers rather than just large corporations. Operating from Bolte’s home with a small dedicated team, the startup envisions the K-Bot performing common household tasks such as toasting bread and mopping floors, thereby reducing manual labor. The initial version, launching in November 2025, will feature basic locomotion, balance control, voice commands, and app-based operation, with a goal of achieving near full autonomy by June 2028. The K-Bot stands 1.4 meters tall, weighs 34 kg, and can carry payloads up to 10 kg. It includes modular, upgradeable sensors and computing systems, RGB and stereo vision cameras, farfield microphones, stereo speakers, and a four-hour battery life. Priced starting at $10,999, it aims to disrupt
robothumanoid-robotopen-source-roboticsautomationpersonal-robotK-Botrobotics-startupThis Chinese 'school' teaches robots to perform tasks using VR
A specialized robot training facility in Hefei, China, known as an embodied intelligent robot training environment, is pioneering the use of virtual reality (VR) to teach robots practical skills in real-world scenarios. Human trainers wearing VR headsets guide robot "students" through fine motor tasks such as picking up tools and tightening screws, with each robot receiving around 200 action sequences daily. This hands-on approach allows robots to gather physical data and develop machine learning models that enable them to generalize tasks beyond memorized motions, adapting to variable conditions like different screw types or uneven surfaces. The school serves as China’s first public robot training platform offering shared resources such as computing power, datasets, and realistic simulated environments, which are typically costly for smaller companies to develop independently. It supports multiple business models, allowing companies to co-run, operate independently, or purchase training services. By bridging the gap between simulated training and real-world performance, the initiative aims to accelerate the development of versatile autonomous robots capable of functioning effectively in logistics
robotrobotics-trainingvirtual-realitymachine-learningautomationindustrial-robotsrobot-education10x efficient solar robot to build farms faster in Australia
Luminous Robotics Inc., a Boston-based company, has developed an AI-powered robot named LUMI designed to automate and significantly speed up solar panel installation. Backed by $4.9 million in funding from the Australian government’s $100 million Solar Scaleup Challenge, the LUMI robot will be deployed at two large-scale Australian solar farms: the 440MW Neoen Culcairn Solar Farm in New South Wales and the 250MW Engie Goorambat East Solar Farm in Victoria. The robot autonomously picks up and places 80-lb solar panels onto racks, enabling onsite workers to complete the securing process more quickly and safely. This technology aims to reduce manual labor, improve installation speed by up to 3.5 times, and lower costs. The deployment of a full fleet of five LUMI robots in Australia marks the first global large-scale use of this technology, with potential cost reductions on solar farm construction estimated at up to 6.2%. ARE
robotsolar-energyautomationrenewable-energyAIsolar-panelsconstruction-technologyWorld's most advanced jet's fuselages now delivered every 30 hours
Northrop Grumman has significantly advanced the manufacturing of the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet by employing cutting-edge technologies at its Integrated Assembly Line (IAL) in Palmdale, California. The IAL produces the center fuselage—a critical airframe component common to all three F-35 variants—at an impressive rate of one every 30 hours. This component includes key features such as the bifurcated inlet system, internal weapons bay, fuel reservoir, and inflight operating doors, all essential to the aircraft’s stealth and operational capabilities. To date, over 1,400 center fuselages have been delivered, supporting both U.S. and international customers. The IAL is described as one of the most advanced military aircraft manufacturing facilities, integrating robotics, automation, and data-driven analytics to enhance production quality and efficiency while maintaining tight engineering tolerances. The facility handles all F-35 variants on a single line and incorporates technologies like automated guided vehicles, robotic drilling, and mold-in
robotautomationadvanced-manufacturingaerospace-materialsrobotics-in-manufacturingdefense-technologyautomated-guided-vehiclesThe EV Battery Swapping Movement Has Legs
The article discusses the resurgence and growing momentum of electric vehicle (EV) battery swapping, a concept that briefly appeared in the US during the Obama administration but failed to gain traction. Globally, however, battery swapping is gaining popularity across various EV classes, from lightweight two-wheelers like scooters to heavy-duty trucks. Two-wheelers have been early adopters due to their small, easily swappable batteries and the ability to install swapping stations in compact urban spaces. The four-wheeler market is more complex, requiring automation and significant infrastructure investment, but companies like Chinese automaker Nio have successfully integrated swapping into their business models, offering battery leasing to reduce upfront costs for consumers. Battery swapping also presents advantages for commercial and fleet EV users, such as gig economy drivers who benefit from rapid battery replacement and lack of home charging options. Swapping stations help optimize battery health and can serve as flexible energy storage units, recharging batteries during low grid demand and potentially supplying power back to the grid. US startup Am
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-swappingEV-infrastructureenergy-storagegrid-managementautomationABB updates IRB 1200 line, adds 3 robot families for China - The Robot Report
ABB Robotics has introduced an upgraded generation of its IRB 1200 collaborative robot family alongside three new robot families specifically designed for the Chinese market. The new IRB 1200 models come in four payload variants (5, 7, 8, and 9 kg) and feature enhanced speed, precision, and compactness. Equipped with the OmniCore controller, these robots achieve path accuracy of 0.6 mm and pose repeatability of 0.011 mm, supporting high-speed operations up to 1,600 mm/s. The redesign makes the IRB 1200 about 20% lighter and more compact, enabling space-efficient production cells suited for complex, high-throughput tasks such as assembly, polishing, and dispensing, particularly in electronics, automotive electronics, and consumer industries. In addition to the IRB 1200 update, ABB launched three new robot families manufactured at its Shanghai Mega Factory to meet growing automation demand in Asia’s SMEs and high-growth sectors like electronics and consumer
roboticsindustrial-robotscollaborative-robotsautomationABB-Roboticsmanufacturing-technologycobotsVinFast Inaugurates 2nd EV Plant In Vietnam - CleanTechnica
Vietnamese automaker VinFast has launched its second electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in the Vũng Áng Economic Zone, Hà Tĩnh Province, approximately 430 kilometers from its main Hai Phong factory. Built in under seven months, this facility is VinFast’s fifth globally and initially has an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles. The 360,000-square-meter plant features advanced automated production lines with equipment from ABB, Dürr, Fanuc, and Siemens, and includes key manufacturing areas such as Body Welding, Painting, Assembly, Logistics, and Quality Control. Initial production will focus on compact urban EV models like the VF3, Minio Green, and EC Van, with plans to prototype and assemble additional models at this site for both domestic and export markets. VinFast is also developing four other factories worldwide. In the U.S., a major manufacturing and battery plant is underway in North Carolina, targeting 150,000 vehicles annually but delayed to 2028. In
electric-vehiclesEV-manufacturingautomationVinFastenergybattery-productionindustrial-roboticsGenesis AI brings in $105M to build universal robotics foundation model - The Robot Report
Genesis AI, a physical AI research lab and robotics company, has emerged from stealth with $105 million in funding to develop a universal robotics foundation model (RFM) and a horizontal robotics platform. The company aims to advance "physical AI"—the intelligence enabling machines to perceive, understand, and interact with the real world—by leveraging digital AI foundations to create general-purpose robots with human-level intelligence. Founded by robotics Ph.D. Zhou Xian and former Mistral AI researcher Théophile Gervet, Genesis AI focuses on building a scalable data engine that unifies high-fidelity physics simulation, multimodal generative modeling, and large-scale real robot data collection to train robust, flexible, and cost-efficient robots. Physical labor accounts for an estimated $30 to $40 trillion of global GDP, yet over 95% remains unautomated due to limitations in current robotic systems, which are often narrow, brittle, and costly. Genesis AI seeks to overcome these challenges by generating rich synthetic data through
roboticsartificial-intelligencephysical-AIrobotics-foundation-modelautomationrobotics-platformAI-simulationNew Advanced Service Robot Released
The article announces the release of RobotEra's new service robot model, the RobotEra Q5. This advanced robot features 44 degrees of freedom, allowing for highly flexible and precise movements. Additionally, it is equipped with a responsive conversational AI, enhancing its ability to interact naturally and effectively with humans. RobotEra aims for the Q5 to make a significant impact in the service robot industry by combining sophisticated mechanical capabilities with advanced communication technology. However, the article provides limited details beyond these key features, leaving specifics about its applications, availability, or pricing unclear.
robotservice-robotAIroboticsautomationadvanced-roboticsRobotEraGenesis AI launches with $105M seed funding from Eclipse, Khosla to build AI models for robots
Genesis AI, a robotics-focused startup founded in December by Carnegie Mellon Ph.D. Zhou Xian and former Mistral research scientist Théophile Gervet, has launched with a substantial $105 million seed funding round co-led by Eclipse Ventures and Khosla Ventures. The company aims to build a general-purpose foundational AI model to enable robots to automate diverse repetitive tasks, ranging from laboratory work to housekeeping. Unlike large language models trained on text, robotics AI requires extensive physical-world data, which is costly and time-consuming to collect. To address this, Genesis AI uses synthetic data generated through a proprietary physics engine capable of accurately simulating real-world physical interactions. This engine originated from a collaborative academic project involving 18 universities, with many researchers from that initiative now part of Genesis’s 20+ member team specializing in robotics, machine learning, and graphics. Genesis claims its proprietary simulation technology allows faster model development compared to competitors relying on NVIDIA’s software. The startup operates from offices in Silicon Valley and Paris and
roboticsartificial-intelligencesynthetic-datamachine-learningrobotics-foundation-modelautomationAI-models-for-robotsTacta Systems raises $75M to give robots a 'smart nervous system' - The Robot Report
Tacta Systems, a Palo Alto-based startup, has raised $75 million to advance its development of dexterous intelligence technology that equips robots with tactile skills and spatial awareness. The company’s proprietary platform, described as a "smart nervous system," integrates software, hardware, and AI to enable robots to perform complex, delicate, and variable tasks with human-like precision, flexibility, and autonomy. CEO Andreas Bibl emphasized that while AI has made strides in processing text and video, much of the physical world remains challenging for machines, and Tacta aims to automate labor-intensive factory work and physical tasks. The funding round includes an $11 million seed round led by Matter Venture Partners and a $64 million Series A led by America’s Frontier Fund and SBVA, with participation from several other investors. Tacta is led by Andreas Bibl, an experienced entrepreneur who previously founded LuxVue Technology, acquired by Apple in 2014. Investors, including Matter Venture Partners’ Wen Hsieh,
roboticsartificial-intelligencetactile-technologyautomationrobotics-startupdexterous-intelligencesmart-nervous-systemA comprehensive list of 2025 tech layoffs
The tech industry continues to experience significant layoffs in 2025, reflecting ongoing cost-cutting measures amid shifts toward AI and automation. According to an independent layoffs tracker, over 62,000 employees have been laid off across multiple months so far this year, with April seeing the highest number at more than 24,500 job cuts. Major companies affected include Rivian, Bumble, Google, Intel, Playtika, Airtime, Microsoft, Hims & Hers, Amazon, Chegg, Match, and CrowdStrike, among others. These layoffs span various divisions such as manufacturing, software engineering, product management, and marketing, signaling broad impacts across the tech sector. Notable examples include Bumble reducing its workforce by 30% to save $40 million annually and focus on new product development, Google downsizing its smart TV division by 25%, and Microsoft cutting over 6,500 jobs, about 3% of its global staff. Amazon has also reduced its workforce by approximately 27,
robotIoTenergylayoffstechnologyworkforce-reductionautomationThree powerhouses cover how to prepare now for your later-stage raise at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, taking place October 27–29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, will feature a crucial session on preparing for later-stage fundraising, specifically targeting founders aiming for significant funding rounds like Series C. The panel, scheduled for October 29 on the Builders Stage, emphasizes that successful late-stage capital raises require more than just strong revenue; founders must craft compelling narratives, monitor key metrics, and nurture investor relationships well in advance. This session promises practical frameworks and candid insights to help startups strategically position themselves for major funding. The panel includes three industry experts: Zeya Yang, a partner at IVP with a background in AI-native startups and product leadership; Lila Preston, head of growth equity at Generation Investment Management, known for scaling impact-driven companies globally; and Andrea Thomaz, CEO and co-founder of Diligent Robotics, who brings firsthand founder experience in AI and robotics innovation. Their combined perspectives offer a comprehensive guide for founders preparing to raise substantial capital. Att
robotAIautomationroboticshealthcare-roboticsstartup-fundingventure-capitalFrance’s drone-killer gun fires up to take down UAV swarms in seconds
France’s new Rapidfire Land air defense system, developed by Thales and KNDS France in collaboration with the French Air and Space Force, is designed to counter modern aerial threats including drone swarms, light aircraft, helicopters, and rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) attacks. Central to the system is a 40mm Cased Telescoped Cannon, originally created for the Jaguar armored vehicle, which can carry 140 ready-to-fire rounds, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets without reloading. A key upcoming feature is the integration of A3B airburst ammunition, set to become operational by 2027, which explodes mid-air to release tungsten sub-projectiles over a wide area, enhancing effectiveness against small and fast-moving threats. The Rapidfire Land system is semi-automated, requiring only two operators to manage weapon engagement and firing, and includes an advanced fire control system that continuously updates target locations for precise tracking and engagement up to 4 kilometers. It is offered in two
robotautonomous-weaponsdrone-defensemilitary-technologyair-defense-systemautomationadvanced-ammunitionApptronik's 'superhuman'-like robots can transform heavy-duty works
Apptronik, a US robotics firm, has launched Elevate, an independent company focused on commercializing advanced multipurpose robots designed to perform heavy-duty industrial tasks beyond human capabilities. Elevate aims to transform industries such as manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, and elder care by deploying “superhuman” robots that are faster, stronger, and more capable than existing automation solutions. The company is led by CEO Paul Hvass and staffed by experienced roboticists and automation experts, leveraging nearly a decade of technological breakthroughs developed by Apptronik, including their humanoid robot Apollo. Apollo, Apptronik’s flagship humanoid robot, is notable for its modular design, safety features, and ability to operate in various environments such as warehouses and manufacturing plants. It supports high payloads, friendly human interaction, and can be mounted on different mobility platforms. Apollo’s hot-swappable battery packs enable continuous operation with minimal downtime. Elevate plans to build on this foundation to push the boundaries of mobile manipulation robotics,
robotroboticsautomationindustrial-robotshumanoid-robotsheavy-duty-roboticsrobotic-technologyApptronik launches Elevate Robotics to build non-humanoid robots
Apptronik, a robotics company known for its decade-long development of humanoid robots like the Apollo, has launched a new subsidiary called Elevate Robotics to focus on building non-humanoid, heavy-duty industrial robots. Elevate will commercialize multipurpose automation solutions designed for industrial-scale tasks, leveraging novel technologies such as Apptronik’s patented gravity compensation, which enables robots like the Scorpio mobile manipulator to lift loads heavier than themselves. While Apptronik continues to advance its humanoid robotics efforts, Elevate will operate independently under CEO Paul Hvass, aiming to expand the capabilities of superhuman robotics in sectors requiring robust automation. Earlier in 2024, Apptronik secured $403 million in Series A funding to accelerate Apollo humanoid production and target industries including automotive, electronics manufacturing, logistics, and consumer goods. The company is actively testing Apollo in real-world applications and collaborating with Google DeepMind to integrate advanced AI models. Despite significant investments and increasing competition in the humanoid robot market—with
roboticsindustrial-robotsmobile-manipulatorsautomationhumanoid-robotsAI-integrationrobotics-technologyThe road ahead for robotics: Insights from Motional's Major and Foundation's Pathak
Episode 201 of The Robot Report Podcast features Laura Major, newly appointed CEO of robotaxi company Motional, and Sankaet Pathek, founder and CEO of humanoid robot developer Foundation. Major discusses Motional’s advancements in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, highlighting the company’s emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve AV performance across diverse environments. Motional combines simulation with real-world testing and uses the Ionic 5 electric platform for efficiency. The company boasts a strong safety record with no at-fault accidents over 2 million miles and collaborates closely with regulators to navigate varying state frameworks. Pathek shares insights into Foundation’s mission to develop practical humanoid robots, focusing on team building, AI integration, safety, and scaling production. He also offers advice for startups on venture capital navigation and cost efficiency in humanoid robotics. The episode also covers broader robotics industry trends, including robust robot sales in Europe’s automotive sector, which installed 23,000 new industrial robots in 2024
roboticsautonomous-vehiclesartificial-intelligencehumanoid-robotsindustrial-robotsautomationelectric-vehiclesRealtime Robotics announces two new direct integrations for Resolver - The Robot Report
Realtime Robotics, a leader in robotic motion-planning software, has announced two new direct integrations for its cloud-based system Resolver, which accelerates the design and deployment of robotic workcells. Resolver automates complex tasks such as path planning, task allocation, sequencing, and layout validation, enabling cycle-time improvements of 15% to 40%. The new integrations allow users of Visual Components and Mitsubishi Electric’s MELSOFT Gemini 3D manufacturing simulation software to access Resolver’s industrial AI directly within their preferred environments, complementing the existing Siemens Process Simulate integration. Resolver’s capabilities focus on optimizing collision-free robot motions, multi-robot coordination, and real-time object detection, which collectively reduce errors and speed up production line builds. Realtime Robotics highlighted growing adoption among automotive OEMs and integrators worldwide, with some already including Resolver in requests for proposals or internal workflows. The partnership with Visual Components, known for its extensive 3D simulation and robot programming tools, aims to tackle increasingly complex applications like large
roboticsmotion-planningindustrial-robotsrobotic-workcellsAIautomationmanufacturing-simulationUR Studio simulator validates cobot setups before deployment
Universal Robots (UR) has launched UR Studio, a new online simulation tool designed to validate collaborative robot (cobot) setups before deployment. Built on UR’s open, AI-ready PolyScope X software platform, UR Studio enables users—including customers, partners, and integrators—to create accurate 1:1 virtual simulations of workcells. The tool allows testing of robot movements, reach, speed, workflow, and cycle time calculations, helping users optimize efficiency and performance. UR Studio supports interaction with UR’s robot portfolio and various components such as pallets, machines, workpieces, and end effectors, with options to customize or import elements to closely mimic real-world environments. This capability helps identify potential issues early, reducing downtime and costly adjustments. The simulator is free, browser-based with no installation needed, and currently offers templates for common applications like machine tending, screwdriving, palletizing, and pick-and-place, with plans to expand. UR Studio is initially available in English, with German, Spanish,
robotcollaborative-robotscobotsrobot-simulationautomationUR-Studioindustrial-robotsABB Robotics launches large industrial robots, heavy duty AMR at Automatica - The Robot Report
ABB Robotics has expanded its industrial robot portfolio with the introduction of new high-performance models, including the IRB 670S, IRB 6730S, IRB 6750S shelf-mounted robots, and the IRB 6760 press-tending robot. These robots are designed to enhance production density and flexibility, with payload capacities up to 350 kg and advanced motion capabilities suitable for industries such as automotive, foundry, construction, and general manufacturing. Powered by ABB’s OmniCore controllers, these robots offer up to 20% energy savings and improved precision, with path accuracy down to 0.9 mm. ABB highlighted that these next-generation robots can collaborate to optimize plant productivity, such as increasing spot welds on car bodies by integrating shelf-mounted and floor-mounted units. In addition to the new robots, ABB introduced the Flexley Mover P603, a compact autonomous mobile robot (AMR) capable of handling heavy payloads up to 1,500 kg. This AM
roboticsindustrial-robotsautonomous-mobile-robotsABB-Roboticsautomationmanufacturing-technologyenergy-efficiencyInbolt to bring its real-time robot guidance systems to the U.S., Japan - The Robot Report
Inbolt, a Paris-based developer of real-time robot guidance systems, is expanding its operations to the U.S. and Japan, aiming to replicate its European market success where it serves major manufacturers like Stellantis, Renault, Volkswagen, Ford, and Beko. Founded in 2019, Inbolt’s GuideNOW system combines a 3D camera, AI-driven real-time workpiece localization, and software integration to enable industrial robots to adapt dynamically to changing environments. The system supports fast part localization and trajectory adjustments, integrates with major robot brands (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Universal Robots), and eliminates the need for costly sensors or rigid setups. Inbolt reports deployment in over 50 factories worldwide and claims significant customer benefits, including up to 97% reduction in downtime and 80% fewer part rejections. The company is accelerating its global expansion backed by a $17 million Series A funding round in 2024, establishing local teams in Detroit and Tokyo to tap into growing
robotindustrial-robotsAI3D-visionautomationmanufacturingreal-time-guidance-systemsVC reflects on robotics trade show season - The Robot Report
The article reflects on the vibrant robotics trade show season in the U.S. during May and June, focusing on major events like Automate and Xponential. The author, an industry insider with nearly a decade of experience attending these shows, notes the significant presence and evolution of robotics technology, particularly in cities like Detroit, which is poised for an industrial renaissance driven by automation. Jeff Burnstein, president of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), emphasized that increased robot sales correlate with job growth, as robots enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness, ultimately leading to better, safer, and higher-paying jobs. Automate, once a smaller segment of ProMat, has grown into a major standalone event attracting over 45,000 attendees, with plans to move to Chicago in 2026 due to its expansion. The trade show floor was fully occupied, showcasing cutting-edge robotics technology, including AI-infused 3D computer vision applications by companies like Cambrian Robotics. Cambrian’s demonstrations, such
roboticsautomationindustrial-robotsAI-in-roboticsmanufacturing-technologyrobot-trade-showsworkforce-automationWant to know where VCs are investing next? Be in the room at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, taking place October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, offers early-stage founders a valuable opportunity to hear directly from top venture capitalists about upcoming investment trends. A highlighted session on October 27 at 1:00 pm features Nina Achadjian (Index Ventures), Jerry Chen (Greylock), and Viviana Faga (Felicis), who will share their 2026 investment priorities across sectors such as AI, data, cloud, robotics, and more. These seasoned VCs will discuss emerging innovations and sectors attracting smart money, providing founders with insights into where venture capital is headed next. Each VC brings distinct expertise: Nina Achadjian focuses on automating overlooked functions and industries by replacing outdated tools, emphasizing founders with empathy, curiosity, and growth mindsets. Jerry Chen invests in product-driven founders working in AI, data, cloud infrastructure, and open-source technologies, leveraging his decade-long experience at VMware. Viviana Faga specializes
robotAIcloud-computingventure-capitalautomationenterprise-softwareSaaSVoliro brings in $23M to accelerate inspection drone development - The Robot Report
Voliro, a Swiss aerial robotics company, has raised an additional $11 million in its Series A funding round, bringing the total to $23 million. This capital injection aims to accelerate the development and global deployment of Voliro’s autonomous aerial inspection robots, designed to modernize infrastructure maintenance, improve industrial safety, and address workforce shortages in inspection fields. The company’s flagship product, the Voliro T platform, features a patented tiltable-rotor design and interchangeable sensor payloads, enabling scalable, data-driven inspections of hard-to-reach industrial assets such as flare stacks, storage tanks, wind turbine blades, and transmission towers. Voliro’s technology targets aging infrastructure, where traditional inspection methods are costly, infrequent, and risky. By enabling faster, safer, and more frequent inspections—such as performing wind turbine lightning protection system checks up to five times faster—Voliro helps reduce downtime and inspection costs by up to 50%. The company has established a global footprint with over 40 customers in
robotdroneaerial-roboticsindustrial-inspectionenergy-transitionwind-turbine-maintenanceautomationAll3 launches AI and robotics to tackle housing construction - The Robot Report
All3, a London-based company, has emerged from stealth mode to introduce an AI- and robotics-driven building system aimed at addressing the growing housing shortage in Europe and North America amid a severe skilled labor deficit. The company’s vertically integrated approach combines AI-powered custom building design, automated manufacturing, and robotic assembly, primarily using structural timber composites. This system streamlines construction processes from initial design to final build, enabling faster development, significant cost reductions, and improved sustainability and affordability. All3’s technology is particularly suited for complex urban brownfield sites, where irregular shapes and limited access pose challenges to traditional construction methods. The construction industry has historically underinvested in innovation, spending less than 1% of revenues on R&D compared to 4.5% in sectors like automotive, resulting in reliance on outdated, labor-intensive processes. Europe alone faces a shortage of 4.2 million construction workers, a gap expected to widen as many skilled workers retire. All3’s CEO, Rodion Shish
roboticsartificial-intelligenceconstruction-technologyautomationbuilding-materialssustainable-housingAI-in-constructionSimbe, Coresight Research study finds retailers urgently need to reduce inefficiencies - The Robot Report
Simbe Robotics Inc. and Coresight Research released the “State of In-Store Retailing 2025” report, highlighting the urgent need for retailers to digitize stores through artificial intelligence and automation to address significant inefficiencies. Retailers currently lose $162.7 billion annually in margin due to in-store inefficiencies—a 27% increase from 2024—primarily driven by shrinkage, manual tasks, and employee turnover. Key operational challenges include promotion execution errors (39%), product pricing errors (37%), and misplaced or missing items on shelves (37%). Although 66% of retailers have begun adopting store intelligence technologies, only 20% have fully scaled these solutions, indicating substantial room for growth. Investment in store intelligence and automation technologies is rising sharply, with a 151% year-over-year increase in planned spending and notable adoption gains in shelf-digitization robotics. Simbe’s autonomous Tally robot exemplifies the benefits of automation, enabling retailers like ShopRite to reduce out
robotautomationretail-technologystore-intelligenceinventory-managementAI-in-retailautonomous-robotsAmazon’s Zoox opens its first major robotaxi production facility
Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company Zoox has inaugurated its first major production facility in Hayward, California, marking a significant milestone in its transition from development to commercial deployment. The 220,000-square-foot factory, located near Zoox’s Foster City headquarters, is designed for engineering, software and hardware integration, assembly, storage, and testing of its custom-built robotaxis. Zoox aims for the facility to eventually produce up to 10,000 robotaxis annually, supporting its expansion into multiple commercial markets. Currently, Zoox is testing vehicles in several U.S. cities and offering rides to employees in Las Vegas and San Francisco, with plans to launch an early-rider program for the public in 2026. The Hayward facility will initially support commercial operations in Las Vegas and San Francisco, with future rollouts planned for Austin and Miami. The factory employs a hybrid workforce of humans and robots, where human workers perform most tasks while robots handle specific functions such as adhesive application and vehicle transport along the
robotautonomous-vehiclesrobotaximanufacturingautomationAI-integrationtransportation-technologySyncraft Builds High-Altitude Climate Positive Power Plant In The Swiss Alps - CleanTechnica
The article highlights a pioneering decentralized renewable energy project in the Swiss Alps by the cleantech company SYNCRAFT. The Engadine installation converts local forest residues into renewable electricity, usable heat, and biogenic carbon (biocoal), making it a climate-positive power plant. This approach not only generates clean energy but also sequesters carbon in solid form, contributing to long-term carbon dioxide removal (CDR) and supporting net-negative emissions goals. Central to the project is the CW1800-500 system, which integrates with existing infrastructure such as boilers and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) units. SYNCRAFT Automation’s advanced control platform is a key feature, enabling real-time data exchange, thermal circuit control, heat load balancing, indoor ventilation coordination, and overall system efficiency optimization. Despite the challenges of high-altitude construction, SYNCRAFT’s engineering teams have progressed with assembly, including pipework, electrical systems, and automation deployment. Manufactured in Europe to high industrial standards, the
energyrenewable-energybiomasscarbon-captureautomationclimate-positivepower-plantA comprehensive list of 2025 tech layoffs
The article provides a detailed overview of the ongoing wave of tech layoffs in 2025, highlighting the significant impact on the industry and workforce amid growing adoption of AI and automation. It tracks layoffs across numerous companies, noting monthly totals such as over 24,500 employees laid off in April and 10,397 in May. The piece underscores the human cost of these cutbacks while also suggesting potential implications for innovation in the tech sector. Several major companies are featured with specific layoff figures and contexts. Microsoft announced cuts exceeding 6,500 jobs, representing about 3% of its global workforce of 228,000, marking one of its largest layoffs since 2023. Amazon has reduced its workforce by approximately 27,000 since 2022, including around 100 layoffs in its devices and services division. Other notable layoffs include Chegg cutting 248 employees (22% of its staff) due to declining web traffic amid AI competition, CrowdStrike reducing about 500 roles as part of
robotIoTenergysemiconductorstech-layoffsworkforce-reductionautomationRobot sales for the automotive industry remain high in Europe - The Robot Report
According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), investments in automation within Europe’s automotive industry remain robust, with 23,000 industrial robots installed in 2024—marking the second-highest figure in five years. The automotive sector is Europe’s largest robotics customer, accounting for about one-third of the region’s annual manufacturing robot installations, surpassing North America’s 19,200 units in the same year. Europe’s leadership in automotive automation is further highlighted by six European countries ranking among the top 10 globally for robot density in the automotive industry, with Switzerland leading at 3,876 robots per 10,000 factory workers. Germany, Italy, and Spain are key contributors to Europe’s overall robotics installations, with Germany alone representing roughly 30% of the total. Globally, China is experiencing significant growth in robotics adoption, driven by a national strategy that has resulted in approximately 280,000 robot installations annually between 2021 and 2023. China now accounts for
roboticsindustrial-robotsautomotive-industryautomationEuropemanufacturingrobot-densityRock Cutting Robot!
The Catonator by KUKA is a mobile robotic arm equipped with a large saw blade measuring between 1000 and 2000 mm in diameter. Designed specifically for heavy-duty cutting tasks, it targets applications such as mining where cutting through rock and concrete is required. The robot's mobility and powerful cutting capabilities enable it to perform these tasks more efficiently and safely compared to traditional manual methods. By automating the cutting process, the Catonator enhances precision and reduces the risk to human operators working in hazardous environments. Its design reflects a growing trend in industrial automation, particularly in sectors like mining and construction, where robust and reliable robotic solutions can significantly improve productivity and safety.
robotrobotic-armrock-cuttingmining-technologyKUKAindustrial-robotautomationNew remote-controlled giant robotic saw slices rocks like butter
The KUKA Catonator is a groundbreaking remote-controlled robotic saw designed to revolutionize cutting in construction, shipbuilding, and heavy manufacturing. Mounted on the KUKA FORTEC KR 480 Ultra robotic arm, it features powerful spindle blades ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 mm in diameter, enabling it to slice through tough materials such as steel, concrete, and complex composites with high precision. The saw boasts a payload capacity of up to 300 kg and a reach exceeding 3 meters, combining brute cutting force with advanced automation to handle complex geometries previously unattainable by robots. The Catonator operates fully electrically, powered by a high-performance battery module that eliminates CO₂ emissions and reduces noise and exhaust fumes compared to traditional diesel-powered equipment. Its precision is enhanced by KUKA’s SmartProduction ecosystem, which provides real-time sensor data and machine learning algorithms to optimize cutting paths and blade performance, maintaining a tolerance as fine as 0.1 millimeters.
robotroboticsremote-controlautomationconstruction-technologyelectric-machinerysmart-productionWatch: Figure 02 robot achieve near-human package sorting skills
Figure AI’s humanoid robot, Figure 02, has demonstrated significant advancements in package sorting, achieving near-human speed and dexterity by processing parcels in about 4.05 seconds each with a 95% barcode scanning success rate. This marks a 20% speed improvement over earlier demonstrations despite handling more complex tasks involving a mix of rigid boxes, deformable poly bags, and flat padded envelopes. Key to this progress is the upgraded Helix visuomotor system, which benefits from a six-fold increase in training data and new modules for short-term visual memory and force feedback. These enhancements enable the robot to remember partial barcode views, adjust grips delicately, and manipulate flexible parcels by flicking or patting them for optimal scanning. The improvements highlight the potential of end-to-end learning systems in dynamic warehouse environments, where the robot can adapt its sorting strategy on the fly and even generalize its skills to new tasks, such as recognizing a human hand as a signal for handing over parcels without additional programming
roboticshumanoid-robotpackage-sortingmachine-learningforce-feedbackvisual-memoryautomationA comprehensive list of 2025 tech layoffs
The article provides a detailed overview of the ongoing wave of tech layoffs in 2025, highlighting the significant impact on the industry and workforce amid increasing adoption of AI and automation. It tracks layoffs across numerous companies, noting that tens of thousands of employees have been laid off each month so far this year: over 24,500 in April, 16,234 in February, and 10,397 in May, among others. The article emphasizes the human cost of these cutbacks while acknowledging that innovation continues to drive structural changes in the sector. Specific company layoffs are detailed, including major reductions at Microsoft, which announced over 6,500 job cuts in May and additional layoffs affecting software engineers, product managers, and other roles in June. Amazon has reduced its workforce by approximately 27,000 since 2022, recently cutting around 100 employees from its devices and services division. Other notable layoffs include Chegg cutting about 22% of its staff due to declining web traffic amid AI competition,
robotIoTenergylayoffstech-industryautomationAIworkforce-reductionWeek in Review: WWDC 2025 recap
The Week in Review covers major developments from WWDC 2025 and other tech news. At Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference, the company showcased updates across its product lineup amid pressure to advance its AI capabilities and address ongoing legal challenges related to its App Store. Meanwhile, United Natural Foods (UNFI) suffered a cyberattack that disrupted its external systems, impacting Whole Foods’ ability to manage deliveries and product availability. In financial news, Chime successfully went public, raising $864 million in its IPO. Other highlights include Google enhancing Pixel phones with new features like group chat for RCS and AI-powered photo editing, and Elon Musk announcing the imminent launch of driverless Teslas in Austin, Texas. The Browser Company is pivoting from its Arc browser to develop an AI-first browser using a reasoning model designed for improved problem-solving in complex domains. OpenAI announced a partnership with Mattel, granting Mattel employees access to ChatGPT Enterprise to boost product development and creativity. However, concerns about privacy surfaced with
robotAIautonomous-vehiclesdriverless-carsmachine-learningartificial-intelligenceautomationSojo Industries raises $40M to scale mobile manufacturing lines - The Robot Report
Sojo Industries, a Bristol, Pennsylvania-based company specializing in advanced robotics, mobile manufacturing, and modular packaging systems for the food and beverage industry, has raised $40 million to expand its operations. Founded in 2021, Sojo aims to scale its Sojo Flight mobile manufacturing lines, enhance its Sojo Shield track-and-trace software platform, and broaden automation across its “atoms to bits” platform. The funding round was led by S2G Investments, a firm focused on sustainable solutions in food, agriculture, oceans, and energy. Sojo’s technology addresses inefficiencies in legacy packaging models by enabling faster, more flexible, and cost-effective production and distribution, particularly for variety-pack products. Sojo Flight offers mobile manufacturing lines that can be deployed and operational within an hour, allowing on-site production that reduces the need for shipping products to separate co-packing facilities. This approach helps brands and manufacturers save significantly on freight and packaging costs while increasing supply chain agility. Additionally, Sojo Shield provides
roboticsmobile-manufacturingautomationpackaging-technologysupply-chain-innovationfood-and-beverage-industrymodular-systemsRecapping Robotics Summit & Expo 2025
The Robot Report Podcast’s Episode 199 features Cam Myers, CEO of CreateMe Technologies, discussing the innovative integration of robotics and adhesive technology in garment manufacturing. Myers highlights the challenges of automating clothing production and the advantages of adhesives over traditional sewing, emphasizing potential reshoring of manufacturing due to shifting tariffs. He also outlines CreateMe’s future focus on sustainability and adapting to changing consumer demands. This episode marks the podcast’s first to include a video interview on their YouTube channel. The episode also covers key industry news, including Aldebaran—the maker of the humanoid robots Nao and Pepper—entering receivership after financial struggles despite past successes and acquisitions. Additionally, the U.S. Congressional Robotics Caucus has been relaunched as a bipartisan effort to promote robotics research and industry competitiveness, with new co-chairs appointed. Lastly, Amazon is reportedly developing AI software to train humanoid robots for package delivery, aiming to enhance automation in its logistics operations.
roboticshumanoid-robotsautomationmanufacturing-technologyadhesive-technologyrobotics-industryCongressional-Robotics-CaucusPreparing for kick-off at RoboCup2025: an interview with General Chair Marco Simões - Robohub
RoboCup 2025 is set to take place in Salvador, Brazil, from July 15-21, marking a significant event for the international robotics and AI community. The event, hosted at the Salvador Convention Center, is expected to attract around 150,000 visitors, surpassing the 100,000 attendees from the last time Brazil hosted in 2014. Organizers anticipate participation from 300-400 teams and approximately 3,000 competitors. Efforts have been made to facilitate visa processes to increase international attendance, especially from teams previously hindered by travel restrictions. New global league partners, including Chinese companies Unitree, Fourier, and Booster Robotics, will showcase advanced humanoid and four-legged robots, enhancing the competition and public exhibitions. Over the past decade, Brazil has seen substantial growth in its RoboCup community, rising to become one of the top countries in terms of team participation. This growth is largely attributed to the development of RoboCupJunior, a program aimed at engaging younger
robotroboticsRoboCupAIautomationhumanoid-robotsrobotics-competitionOMRON gives insight into new dedicated robotics organization - The Robot Report
OMRON Corporation has established a dedicated global robotics organization as of April 1, reflecting its strategic commitment to robotics as a core pillar of its end-to-end automation systems. This new unit will operate alongside OMRON’s existing automation business, allowing both to complement and reinforce each other. The initiative aims to enhance customer success through faster decision-making, world-class technical support, and strengthened specialized expertise, particularly across Europe. Investments include Automation and Robotics Centers of Excellence in France, Spain, and Germany, as well as a network of proof-of-concept labs to foster local innovation. The European robotics team comprises dedicated sales, application, and service engineers working closely with the global organization to provide targeted technical expertise and quicker responses to evolving customer needs. Justin King, OMRON’s vice president of product management, marketing, and business development for Robotics and Safety Technologies, explained that the creation of this specialized organization was driven by the desire to better serve customers by integrating product development, manufacturing, sales, and support functions
roboticsautomationOMRONindustrial-robotsrobotics-organizationrobotics-innovationautomation-systemsMotional names Major president, CEO of self-driving car business
Laura Major was appointed president and CEO of Motional, a leading autonomous vehicle company, in June 2025 after serving as interim CEO since September 2024. She succeeded Karl Iagnemma, who left to lead Vecna Robotics. Major has been with Motional since its founding in 2020, initially as CTO, where she spearheaded the development of the IONIQ 5 robotaxi, one of the first autonomous vehicles certified by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, and created a machine learning-first autonomous driving software stack. Her leadership emphasizes leveraging AI breakthroughs and partnership with Hyundai to advance safe, fully driverless transportation as a practical part of everyday life. Before Motional, Major built expertise in autonomy and AI at Draper Laboratory and Aria Insights, focusing on astronaut, national security, and drone applications. She began her career as a cognitive engineer designing decision-support systems for astronauts and soldiers and later led Draper’s Information and Cognition Division. Recognized as an emerging leader by
robotautonomous-vehiclesAImachine-learningroboticsself-driving-carsautomationMeta’s V-JEPA 2 model teaches AI to understand its surroundings
Meta has introduced V-JEPA 2, a new AI "world model" designed to help artificial intelligence agents better understand and predict their surroundings. This model enables AI to make common-sense inferences about physical interactions in the environment, similar to how young children or animals learn through experience. For example, V-JEPA 2 can anticipate the next likely action in a scenario where a robot holding a plate and spatula approaches a stove with cooked eggs, predicting the robot will use the spatula to move the eggs onto the plate. Meta claims that V-JEPA 2 operates 30 times faster than comparable models like Nvidia’s, marking a significant advancement in AI efficiency. The company envisions that such world models will revolutionize robotics by enabling AI agents to assist with real-world physical tasks and chores without requiring massive amounts of robotic training data. This development points toward a future where AI can interact more intuitively and effectively with the physical world, enhancing automation and robotics capabilities.
robotartificial-intelligenceAI-modelroboticsmachine-learningautomationAI-agentsChina’s AI system builds Intel-class chips with zero US software
China has developed an AI-powered chip design system called QiMeng, created by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and affiliated institutions, to accelerate semiconductor development and reduce reliance on Western software amid escalating US-China tech tensions. QiMeng uses large language models to automate complex chip design tasks, significantly shortening development times—for example, producing an autonomous-driving chip in days instead of weeks. The platform is structured in three layers, integrating processor models, design agents, and chip design applications to support automated front-end design, hardware description language generation, OS configuration, and compiler toolchain creation. Researchers have already built two processors with QiMeng: QiMeng-CPU-v1, comparable to Intel’s 486, and QiMeng-CPU-v2, similar to Arm’s Cortex A53. The launch of QiMeng directly responds to US export restrictions that limit Chinese access to leading electronic design automation (EDA) software from companies like Synopsys, Cadence, and Siemens EDA, which previously dominated China’s EDA market. By open-sourcing QiMeng and publishing detailed documentation, China aims to improve design efficiency, reduce costs, and enable rapid customization of chip architectures and software stacks. While China still faces challenges in fabrication technology and ecosystem diversity, QiMeng represents a strategic step toward automating the full chip design and verification process and advancing China’s broader goal of semiconductor self-reliance in the face of ongoing geopolitical pressures.
AIsemiconductorchip-designprocessorautomationtechnology-independenceChinese-Academy-of-SciencesNew 'claw machine' robot speeds up embryo model research
Researchers at the University of Washington and the Brotman Baty Institute have developed a novel automated robot, inspired by a "claw machine" design, to sort stem cell-derived embryo models called gastruloids. Gastruloids mimic the third week of human embryonic development, a critical phase when the body's three primary germ layers form. This new system enables scientists to efficiently isolate and study hundreds of gastruloids simultaneously, overcoming previous challenges of manual sorting that were time-consuming and prone to human error. The robot uses a combination of a microscope, digital camera, sliding stage, and microraft manipulation tools to precisely select individual gastruloids grown on tiny platforms. This automation not only speeds up research but also allows for more detailed investigation into the subtle variations between gastruloids, which can reveal insights into genetic drift, epigenetic influences, and developmental heterogeneity. Importantly, the technology facilitates studies on genetic disorders such as aneuploidy—abnormal chromosome numbers—by enabling analysis of how gastruloids with varying aneuploid cell proportions self-correct, shedding light on embryonic robustness. By providing a scalable, ethical, and precise platform for studying early human development, this innovation promises to accelerate advances in developmental biology, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. The findings were published in APL Bioengineering.
roboticsautomationstem-cell-researchbiomedical-engineeringembryo-modelinglaboratory-roboticscell-sorting-technologySiemens launches enhanced motion control portfolio for basic automation applications - The Robot Report
Siemens has introduced an enhanced motion control portfolio aimed at basic automation applications such as handling, moving, positioning, and processing. The portfolio integrates SINAMICS servo drive systems with the new SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 controller, offering improved performance, flexibility, and simplified system configuration. Key features include enhanced processing power, support for up to 31 PROFINET devices with synchronized execution, advanced safety certifications up to SIL3/PLe Category 4, near-field communication (NFC) for wireless diagnostics, and a range of power options up to 7 kW. The system is designed for cost-effective modernization of automation with comprehensive safety and wireless diagnostic capabilities, all integrated within Siemens’ TIA Portal environment. The motion control system comprises three main components: the SINAMICS S200 and S210 servo drive systems, the SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 compact PLC with integrated IOs and expandable modules, and a broad range of compatible SIMOTIC servomotors tailored for motion control and machine tool applications. The SINAMICS S210 supports power ratings up to 7 kW and includes integrated safety functions, while the S200 system covers lower power ranges with additional brake control features. Siemens emphasizes that this portfolio supports industries including manufacturing, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare, aligning with its broader mission to enable resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, smarter buildings, and advanced healthcare solutions. In fiscal 2022, Siemens Group USA reported revenues of $18.6 billion.
robotautomationmotion-controlservo-drivesSiemensindustrial-roboticsPLC-controllersOxipital AI and Schmalz extend partnership for automated picking - The Robot Report
Oxipital AI and J. Schmalz GmbH have extended their partnership to integrate Oxipital AI’s advanced machine vision technology with Schmalz’s mGrip robotic fingers and vacuum end-of-arm tooling (EOAT). This collaboration aims to deliver next-generation robotic grasping solutions that improve operational efficiency, reduce labor dependence, and ensure consistent, safe, and profitable production, particularly in the food and beverage industry. Oxipital AI, originally founded as Soft Robotics, has shifted its focus from soft robotic grippers to AI-enabled machine vision systems, exemplified by its recent release of the VX2 Vision System designed for food-grade inspection and picking. Schmalz, a global leader in vacuum industrial automation and ergonomic material handling since 1910, benefits from this partnership by expanding the applicability of its tooling solutions to more complex manufacturing processes. The integration of Oxipital AI’s vision technology enhances Schmalz’s robotic grasping capabilities, enabling more capable and higher-performing picking solutions. Both companies emphasize their shared focus on robotic automation and digitalization, with Schmalz leveraging acquisitions and new technologies to strengthen its offerings in packaging, food, and pharmaceutical industries. The partnership was highlighted at the recent Automate event, signaling ongoing collaboration and innovation in automated picking systems.
roboticsartificial-intelligencemachine-visionrobotic-pickingautomationend-of-arm-toolingindustrial-roboticsXRobotics’ countertop robots are cooking up 25,000 pizzas a month
XRobotics, a San Francisco-based startup, has developed the xPizza Cube, a compact countertop robot designed to automate key pizza-making tasks such as applying sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. The machine, roughly the size of a stackable washing machine, can produce up to 100 pizzas per hour and is adaptable to various pizza styles, including Detroit and Chicago deep dish. Leasing at $1,300 per month over three years, the robot aims to save pizza makers 70-80% of the labor time involved in repetitive tasks, helping both small pizzerias and large chains improve efficiency without requiring a full overhaul of their kitchen processes. Unlike previous ventures like Zume, which attempted to fully automate pizza production and ultimately failed, XRobotics focuses on assistive technology that integrates into existing kitchens. After initial challenges with a larger, more complex robot, the company pivoted to a smaller, more affordable model launched in 2023, which has since produced 25,000 pizzas monthly. The startup recently raised $2.5 million in seed funding to scale production and expand its customer base. With plans to enter the Mexican and Canadian markets, XRobotics remains committed to the pizza industry, leveraging the large market size and the founders’ personal passion for pizza.
roboticsautomationfood-technologymachine-learningrestaurant-technologypizza-makingkitchen-roboticsHuman-like robot hands could soon rule factories with Nvidia tech
South Korean robotics firm Tesollo is advancing automation with its human-like robotic hands, aiming to replace manual labor across industries globally. The company recently joined Nvidia’s Inception Program, which provides startups with technical guidance, GPU optimization, business support, and global networking to accelerate innovation. Tesollo’s latest product, the DELTO Gripper 5-Finger (DG-5F), launched in March 2025, closely replicates the human hand’s structure with 20 independently controlled joints, enabling precise, complex movements and multiple grip modes such as pinch, power, and precision grips. The DG-5F also features optional high-precision fingertip sensors that provide force feedback and dynamic grip adjustments, making it suitable for tasks requiring delicate handling in environments designed for human workers. In addition to the DG-5F, Tesollo offers the DELTO Gripper 3-Finger (DG-3F), which boasts a modular design for easy maintenance and enhanced durability. Powered by a high-performance BLDC motor and equipped with high-strength steel gears, the DG-3F can withstand over 3 million operational cycles and deliver torque up to 2Nm. It supports multiple operational modes, including Parallel Mode for standard gripping and Smooth Mode for handling delicate objects, with features like target arrival recognition and post-grip position adjustment to improve precision. Both grippers are designed for diverse industrial applications, including automated assembly in smart factories and efficient object handling in logistics, positioning Tesollo’s technology as a significant step toward widespread robotic automation.
roboticsrobotic-handsNvidia-Inception-Programautomationhumanoid-robotsAI-in-roboticsindustrial-automation432 robots move 7,500-ton building in China to make way for construction
The 100-year-old Huayanli complex in Shanghai, a 7,382-ton traditional shikumen-style building set covering 13,222 square feet, is being temporarily relocated about 10 meters per day using 432 small walking robots. This unprecedented engineering project aims to clear space for constructing a three-story underground facility beneath the complex, which will house 173,885 square feet of cultural and commercial zones, a parking garage with over 100 spaces, and a transport hub connecting Metro Lines 2, 12, and 13. The dense, historic Zhangyuan area, featuring narrow alleys and tightly packed buildings, necessitated innovative robotic solutions, including drilling and earth-moving robots capable of operating in confined spaces as narrow as 1.2 meters. Advanced technologies such as AI-driven deep learning, building information modeling (BIM), and point cloud scanning were employed to create detailed 3D models of the site, enabling precise planning of movement routes and soil removal paths. A factory-line-style conveyor belt system was implemented to efficiently remove soil with minimal disruption. Once the underground construction is complete, the Huayanli complex will be returned to its original location, integrating preserved historical architecture with modern underground infrastructure, thereby revitalizing the Zhangyuan area while maintaining its cultural heritage.
robotsroboticsconstruction-technologyAIcivil-engineeringbuilding-relocationautomationTesla’s Optimus robot VP is reportedly leaving the company
Milan Kovac, the vice president leading Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot program, is reportedly leaving the company, according to Bloomberg News. Kovac, who has been with Tesla for nearly a decade and previously worked as a top engineer on the Autopilot team, was appointed to lead the Optimus development in 2022 and became VP of the program in late 2024. He was responsible for driving the engineering teams behind both Optimus and the shared software infrastructure with Autopilot. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has ambitious plans for the Optimus robot, projecting that “thousands” of units will be operating in Tesla factories by the end of 2025, with a rapid scale-up to millions of units per year as soon as possible. Following Kovac’s departure, Ashok Elluswamy, Tesla’s vice president of AI software, will take over leadership of the Optimus project. This leadership change comes amid Tesla’s aggressive push to advance its humanoid robot technology and integrate it into its manufacturing operations.
robotTeslahumanoid-robotOptimusAI-softwarerobotics-engineeringautomationWebinar to discuss advances in mobile robots for warehouses - The Robot Report
The article discusses an upcoming webinar hosted by Vanderlande and Hai Robotics, focusing on the advancements in mobile robots for warehouse operations. As warehouse operators and third-party logistics providers face challenges such as rising customer demand, labor shortages, and trade disruptions, automation through mobile robots is becoming increasingly vital for enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. The webinar, scheduled for June 10, 2025, will feature industry experts who will explore the integration of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), self-driving forklifts, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) into existing workflows, as well as their impact on productivity, inventory management, and safety. Key topics to be covered include identifying workflows suitable for automation, various mobile robot options available, and the role of orchestration software in ensuring interoperability with other equipment. The experts will also emphasize the importance of understanding the operational environment and maintaining human oversight in automated processes. Attendees will gain insights into how mobile robots can improve visibility, reduce costs, and provide valuable data for digital twins and AI applications. The webinar will be available for on-demand viewing after the live session, allowing participants to engage with the panel and ask questions.
robotautomationmobile-robotswarehouse-solutionslogisticsinventory-managementAGVsRobot Talk Episode 124 – Robots in the performing arts, with Amy LaViers - Robohub
robotroboticsperforming-artsartificial-intelligenceautomationmachine-designdanceWalmart and Wing expand drone delivery to five more U.S. cities
drone-deliveryWalmartIoTautomationretail-innovationlogisticsWingInventory robots come to Sleepy Hollow as Simbe partners with grocery chain - The Robot Report
robotinventory-managementgrocery-retailautomationreal-time-dataoperational-efficiencyretail-technologyKepler Robotics showcases K2 'Bumblebee' humanoid at ICRA 2025 - The Robot Report
robothumanoidautomationindustrial-roboticsenergy-efficiencysensor-technologyK2-BumblebeeAmazon preps humanoid robots for faster doorstep delivery revolution
robotdeliveryautomationAIlogisticshumanoid-robotslast-mile-deliveryFastest-ever robot 3D scanner sees transparent objects in 1.5 seconds
robot3D-scanningthermal-imagingautomationindustrial-roboticsadvanced-manufacturingAI-analysissamos PRO MOTION Controller wins award for Wieland Electric - The Robot Report
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roboticsinnovationawardstechnologyautomationrobotics-industryRBR50Robots automate steel bar work to speed up and reshape construction
robotconstructionautomationreinforcementdigital-fabricationrobotic-arminfrastructureUK’s Humanoid teases new robot for retail and logistics revolution
robothumanoidautomationlogisticsretailAImodular-designCybernetix Ventures raising $100M fund for robotics and physical AI - The Robot Report
roboticsinvestmentautomationartificial-intelligencestartupstechnologyventure-capitalThis Robot Can Use Chopsticks Better Than You!
robotroboticsautomationAItechnologyinnovationdexterityLearn how gearboxes enable next-gen warehouse automation - The Robot Report
robotautomationwarehousegearboxesmotion-controlroboticstechnologyCongressional Robotics Caucus relaunches to help U.S. industry - The Robot Report
roboticsCongressional-Robotics-CaucusU.S.-industryautomationmanufacturingartificial-intelligenceeconomic-competitiveness‘World-first’ humanoid robot to master chopsticks, cook dumplings
robothumanoidroboticscookingautomationdexteritytechnologyTop 10 robotics developments of May 2025 - The Robot Report
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robothumanoidroboticsAIautomationindustrial-robotstechnologyHyundai, Kia, Genesis Meta Factory Visit Shows They Are Prepared For The Future - CleanTechnica
robotIoTenergyautomationelectric-vehiclesmanufacturingsmart-factoryTesla's latest self-driving mode overturns car, raises safety concerns
robotself-drivingTeslaautomationsafetytechnologyFSDKilted Kaiju ROS 2 release details are available - The Robot Report
robotROS-2Kilted-KaijuOpen-Source-Roboticsmiddlewarerobotic-applicationsautomationRecapping Robotics Summit & Expo 2025
roboticsautomationhumanoid-robotsrobotics-innovationrobotic-systemsartificial-intelligenceROSARM Institute appoints Jorgen Pedersen as new CEO - The Robot Report
robotroboticsmanufacturingAIautomationworkforce-developmentARM-InstituteSnake and insect-inspired robots team up to do what humans can't
robotinspectionmicrorobotssoft-roboticsautomationengineeringtechnology#ICRA2025 social media round-up - Robohub
robotroboticsICRA2025automationUAVUGVconferenceMbodi AI launches on Y Combinator, developing embodied AI for industrial robots - The Robot Report
robotAIautomationmanufacturingroboticstechnologyinnovationPhotoneo launches MotionCam-3D Color (Blue) to improve robot perception - The Robot Report
robotIoTmachine-visionautomation3D-scanningdigital-twinssensor-technologyTesla’s Optimus robot takes out trash, vacuums, cleans like a pro
robotTeslaOptimusAIautomationhumanoid-robotreinforcement-learning10 robotics trends spotted at Automate 2025 - The Robot Report
robotautomationroboticsindustrial-automationcollaborative-robotstrade-showtechnology-trendsAutomate 2025: 5 ways cobots and AMRs top humanoid robots - The Robot Report
robotautomationcollaborative-robotsautonomous-mobile-robotsindustrial-applicationsAI-in-roboticsmanufacturing-technologySimbe upgrades vision platform with AI-powered capabilities - The Robot Report
robotAIcomputer-visioninventory-managementretail-technologyautomationoperational-efficiencyHumanoid robots evolve with 360° wheels, flexible controls from Korea
robothumanoid-robotsroboticsautomationmobilitytechnologyinnovationOrbit 5.0 adds features to Boston Dynamics' Spot quadruped robot - The Robot Report
robotAIautomationinspectionsBoston-DynamicsSpottechnologyAgibot’s humanoid readies for robot face-off with Kung Fu flair
robotAIhumanoidroboticsautomationmachine-learninginteractionWorld’s first AI nurse? Nurabot joins Taiwan hospitals to battle healthcare crisis
robotAIhealthcarenursingdigital-healthautomationTaiwanAutomate 2025 recap by The Robot Report Podcast
robotautomationroboticscollaborative-robotsmotion-controlpath-planningsafety-standardsChina’s marathon-winning humanoid moves from track to factory floor
robothumanoidautomationproductivitylogisticsartificial-intelligenceelectric-robotNVIDIA releases cloud-to-robot computing platforms for physical AI, humanoid development - The Robot Report
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robotIoTenergyautomationelectric-vehiclesmining-technologyartificial-intelligenceABB deploys PixelPaint at Mercedes-Benz plant in Germany
robotautomationmanufacturingpainting-technologyprecision-engineeringsustainable-technologyMercedes-BenzWhat’s coming up at #ICRA2025?
robotroboticsautomationICRA2025human-robot-interactionsoft-roboticsmulti-robot-systemsLoạt hành động 'bất hảo' của robot
robottechnologyautomationsafetyindustrial-robotsroboticsAIElon Musk khoe Optimus nhảy điệu giống ông Trump
robotTeslaOptimusAIhumanoid-robotautomationfuture-technologyDHL buying 1,000+ Stretch robots from Boston Dynamics
robotlogisticsautomationBoston-DynamicsStretchsupply-chaindigitalizationA3: North American robot orders remain steady to start 2025
robotautomationNorth-Americacollaborative-robotsmanufacturingautomotive-industryinvestmentUniversal Robots releases the UR15, its fastest cobot yet
robotcobotautomationcollaborative-roboticsindustrial-roboticsproductivitymotion-controlHệ thống drone kiểm tra thần tốc đường dây điện
droneinspectionenergyautomationtechnologytransmission-linesefficiencyRealtime Robotics launches Resolver for motion planning, simulation
robotmotion-planningautomationindustrial-robotscollision-avoidanceworkcell-designsimulationAI-powered robots help tackle Europe’s growing e-waste problem
robotAIe-wasterecyclingautomationroboticstechnologyMô hình AI cho phép điều khiển robot bằng lời
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robotAIautomationsmart-technologyhair-careChinainnovationAmazon offers peek at new human jobs in an AI bot world
robotAIautomationworkforcejob-trainingwarehouse-technologyhuman-robot-collaborationHumanoid robots can benefit from high-performance seals, says Freudenberg
robothumanoid-robotssealing-technologiesautomationindustrial-robotsrobotics-markethigh-performance-materialsStandard Bots launches 30kg robot arm and U.S. production facility
robotautomationmanufacturingAIroboticscollaborative-robotsindustrial-robotsSafety and efficiency in robotics design
robotroboticsautomationAIindustrial-robotsforce-sensingAmazon-RoboticsSafety and efficiency in robotics design
robotroboticsautomationAIforce-sensingindustrial-robotsAmazon-RoboticsABB upgrades Flexley Mover AMR with visual SLAM capabilities
robotAMRautomationvSLAMAI-visionlogisticsindustrial-roboticsNhững robot thay người làm việc tại Trung Quốc
robotautomationtechnologyengineeringroboticsChinaapplicationsU.S. automotive industry increased robot installations by 10% in 2024
robotautomationmanufacturingindustrial-robotsautomotive-industryfactory-automationroboticsEx-Synapse CEO reportedly trying to raise $100M for his new humanoid robotics venture
robothumanoid-roboticsfundraisingstartupautomationlabor-shortagetechnologyAmazon’s Vulcan robot uses force sensing to stow items
robotautomationforce-sensingAIAmazon-Roboticsmaterial-handlingoperational-efficiencyRecapping Robotics Summit & Expo 2025
robotroboticsautomationRobotics-SummitengineeringprecisiondesignTeradyne Robotics makes leadership changes at MiR, UR
robotroboticsautomationcollaborative-robotsmobile-robotsTeradyneleadership-changesMeet Posha, a countertop robot that cooks your meals for you
robotcountertop-robotcooking-technologyautomationkitchen-appliancemeal-preparationroboticsTop 10 robotics developments of April 2025
roboticsautomationAIdelivery-robotsaerospace-manufacturingrobotic-systemsinnovationAVEVA PI System Giúp doanh nghiệp tăng khả năng cạnh tranh nhờ làm chủ dữ liệu
energyIoTdata-analyticsreal-time-monitoringautomationsustainabilityindustrial-processesigus introduces Iggy Rob low-cost humanoid for service, industrial applications
robothumanoid-robotautomationindustrial-applicationsroboticsmotion-plasticsaffordable-roboticsHEBI Robotics wins RBR50 award for ‘inchworm’ robot family
robotroboticsautomationmodular-systemsinchworm-robotRBR50-awardHEBI-RoboticsSEER Robotics offers digital product matrix
robotsmart-factoriesdigital-transformationlogistics-managementautomationintelligent-schedulingindustrial-automationFigure AI - công ty robot hình người Mỹ bị nghi 'thổi phồng'
robotAIautomationroboticsinvestmentSilicon-ValleymanufacturingHyundai đưa robot hình người vào nhà máy tại Mỹ
robotautomationmanufacturingHyundaiBoston-DynamicsAtlaselectric-vehiclesElmo Motion Control presents technology innovations at upcoming shows
robotmotion-controlroboticsautomationEtherCATservo-drivestechnology-innovationsRobot Talk Episode 119 – Robotics for small manufacturers, with Will Kinghorn
robotautomationmanufacturingroboticsartificial-intelligencetechnology-adoptiondigital-transformationYour guide to Day 2 of the 2025 Robotics Summit & Expo
robotroboticsrobotaxiartificial-intelligenceautomationtechnologyexpoDuolingo launches 148 courses created with AI after sharing plans to replace contractors with AI
DuolingoAIlanguage-learningeducation-technologyautomationcoursescontractorsSupio, an AI-powered legal analysis platform, lands $60M
AIlegaltechstartup-fundingventure-capitalautomationlegal-analysistechnologyAI sales tax startup Kintsugi had doubled its valuation in 6 months
AIsales-taxstartuptax-complianceautomatione-commercefundingCast AI raises $108M to get the most out of AI, Kubernetes and other workloads
Cast-AIfundingAI-optimizationKubernetescloud-computingautomationworkload-managementBurgerBots opens restaurant with ABB robots preparing fast food
BurgerBotsABB-Roboticsfast-foodautomationroboticsrestaurant-technologycobotsEpson adds GX-C Series with RC800A controller to its robot line
EpsonroboticsGX-C-seriesSCARA-robotsRC800A-controllerSafeSense-technologyautomationGlacier brings in $16M and announces new Recology King deployment
GlacierfundraisingroboticsrecyclingautomationtechnologyRecologyRobot Talk Episode 115 – Robot dogs working in industry, with Benjamin Mottis
robot-dogsroboticsindustry-applicationsautomationtechnologyBenjamin-MottisRobohubUK fintech Sprive closes $7.3M round to facilitate mortgage overpayments
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