Industry Briefing

A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.

Paris aims to become the European capital of Physical AI by 2026.

Paris aims to become the European capital of Physical AI by 2026.

A new era of artificial intelligence is emerging, transitioning from the digital realm of generative AI to the physical world with the development of robots that can perceive, reason, and act in real environments. On July 7, Paris will host the inaugural edition of MACHINA 2026, an event aimed at establishing the city as the European capital of Physical AI. This initiative reflects a growing interest in integrating advanced AI technologies into everyday life, highlighting the potential for robots to enhance various sectors by interacting with their surroundings in meaningful ways. The event is expected to showcase innovations and foster discussions on the future of robotics and AI in society.

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Watch: Robot dog completes 33,000 inspections at 150-year-old cement plant safely

Watch: Robot dog completes 33,000 inspections at 150-year-old cement plant safely

Swiss cement producer Vigier Ciment has partnered with ANYbotics to enhance its operational efficiency by deploying the ANYmal quadruped robot for automated inspections. This innovative initiative, which began recently, aims to streamline the inspection process within the company’s facilities. By utilizing the advanced capabilities of the ANYmal robot, Vigier Ciment seeks to improve safety and reduce the time required for routine checks, which are essential for maintaining high standards in production. The integration of robotics in this sector reflects a growing trend towards automation in industrial operations, driven by the need for increased productivity and cost-effectiveness. The deployment of the ANYmal robot is expected to not only optimize inspection routines but also pave the way for further technological advancements within the cement industry.

AI and Robotics
Video Friday: Do Robots Even Need Legs?

Video Friday: Do Robots Even Need Legs?

In the latest edition of Video Friday, IEEE Spectrum robotics showcases a variety of innovative robotics videos and announces upcoming events in the field. Notable events include RSS 2026 scheduled for July 13-17 in Sydney, the Summer School on Multi-Robot Systems from July 29 to August 4 in Prague, Actuate 2026 on August 18-19 in San Francisco, and IROS 2026 from September 27 to October 1 in Pittsburgh. Among the featured projects, Eno, an advanced AI and general-purpose robot developed by Genesis, exemplifies a new generation of robots designed to enhance human capabilities. Meanwhile, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is testing the ERNEST rover in California's Colorado Desert, which is being developed for future lunar missions and can operate autonomously over challenging terrain. Sony AI's Ace project demonstrates a robotic system capable of adapting to unpredictable scenarios in table tennis, while ANYbotics highlights the economic benefits of their quadruped robots in industrial inspections, preventing significant production losses. GITAI is preparing for a robotic satellite servicing demo, and Bi-AQUA is exploring underwater photography challenges for robots. Sanctuary AI has achieved impressive results in wire plugging tasks for a major automotive supplier, showcasing a success rate exceeding 99.5%. Additionally, various other robotics projects are highlighted, including a bipedal robot named GrowBot, which operates on a low-cost Raspberry Pi and aims to make physical AI accessible to a broader audience.

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ANYbotics expands global presence with new engineering and AI hub in Barcelona

ANYbotics expands global presence with new engineering and AI hub in Barcelona

ANYbotics, a leader in AI-driven robotic inspection solutions, has inaugurated a new office in Barcelona, Spain, situated at the DFactory Barcelona campus. This marks the company’s third global location, joining its existing offices in Zurich and San Francisco. The expansion comes in response to the growing demand for ANYbotics' autonomous inspection technologies, particularly in asset-intensive and process-driven sectors. The new engineering and AI hub is expected to enhance the company’s capabilities and support its strategic growth in the region.

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Nicolas Sauvage is betting on the boring parts of AI

Nicolas Sauvage is betting on the boring parts of AI

Since 2019, a notable portfolio has been developed, showcasing a range of technologies that have increasingly captured the interest of venture capitalists over the past year. This shift in focus among investors highlights a growing trend towards innovative solutions that address current market demands. The portfolio's evolution reflects broader industry changes and the potential for significant returns in emerging sectors. As venture capitalists seek to capitalize on these advancements, the strategic selection of technologies within the portfolio underscores a proactive approach to investment in a rapidly evolving landscape.

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2025 Top Article - ANYbotics ANYmal robot is addressing key challenges in Industrial Robotics

2025 Top Article - ANYbotics ANYmal robot is addressing key challenges in Industrial Robotics

The ANYmal robot is revolutionizing industrial operations by providing autonomous inspection capabilities in challenging and hazardous environments. Designed with a four-legged structure, ANYmal can adeptly navigate uneven terrains, stairs, and confined spaces, making it an essential tool for industries that require thorough inspections in difficult-to-reach areas. This innovative technology addresses significant challenges faced by operators, enhancing safety and efficiency in various industrial settings. With its advanced mobility and autonomous features, ANYmal is set to transform how inspections are conducted, ensuring that critical assessments can be performed with minimal human intervention.

RobotToday Initiative

Robotics needs a service framework.

RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.