Industry Briefing

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

New Theory Suggests Cognition and Consciousness Stem from Analog Computations in the Brain

New Theory Suggests Cognition and Consciousness Stem from Analog Computations in the Brain

A new theory published in The Journal of Neuroscience by scientists at MIT's Picower Institute explains that the brain produces cognition and consciousness through traveling waves of rhythmic neural activity. This process coordinates nimble neural networks using analog computations rather than relying solely on the slower chemical processes of synapses. The research, led by Picower Professor Earl K. Miller, emphasizes that while circuits and synapses are fundamental, the brain's ability to generate waves allows for efficient computation and coordination among millions of neurons. This insight not only enhances our understanding of cognitive processes but also suggests potential clinical applications for manipulating brain wave dynamics in treatments. Miller and his colleagues highlight the significance of mixed selectivity in neurons, which enables them to participate in multiple functional networks simultaneously. The theory posits that different frequency brain waves, such as alpha and beta waves, regulate cognitive functions and sensory processing, providing a framework for understanding how the brain organizes information rapidly and flexibly.

Research Brain and cognitive sciences Anesthesia Learning Memory Autism
Analog Devices Reaffirms Strategic Sponsorship to Support MassRobotics Startups

Analog Devices Reaffirms Strategic Sponsorship to Support MassRobotics Startups

Analog Devices Inc. has renewed its strategic sponsorship of MassRobotics, enhancing support for robotics startups. Joyce Sidopoulos, co-founder of MassRobotics, emphasized the importance of ADI's technical expertise and mentorship in accelerating the development of commercial-ready robotics systems. This partnership is crucial as developing advanced robotics is capital- and engineering-intensive. ADI's resources, including its Analog Garage venture group, provide startups with access to advanced technologies that address complex hardware challenges. ADI's commitment aligns with its mission to bridge the physical and digital worlds, driving innovation in automation and robotics. Looking ahead, Analog Devices plans to engage in several robotics ecosystem events, including the 9th Annual Robot Block Party and the MassRobotics Startup PitchFest. These initiatives will facilitate collaboration between startups and corporations, furthering the development of innovative solutions in the robotics sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Business Resources Events Microprocessors / SoC Microprocessors / SoCs News Startups
Analog Devices Strengthens Partnership with MassRobotics to Aid Robotics Startups

Analog Devices Strengthens Partnership with MassRobotics to Aid Robotics Startups

Analog Devices has renewed its strategic sponsorship of MassRobotics, a robotics accelerator based in Boston. This partnership emphasizes the role of Analog Garage, ADI’s internal venture group, which provides seed funding and engineering resources to help startups transform innovative ideas into market-ready products. Startups within MassRobotics will benefit from access to ADI’s advanced technologies in sensor, signal processing, and power management, addressing critical hardware challenges. This collaboration is significant as it supports the development of hardware and advanced robotics, which often require substantial capital and engineering resources. Joyce Sidopoulos, co-founder of MassRobotics, highlighted the importance of having ADI’s technical expertise available to their startup community, which can accelerate the creation of commercially viable systems. The partnership aims to foster innovation and expedite the growth of the robotics sector. Looking ahead, ADI will actively engage in various robotics events this fall, including the MassRobotics 9th Annual Robot Block Party and the Startup PitchFest at IROS 2026. The Analog Garage will also conduct information sessions at the RoboBusiness conference, providing opportunities for founders to learn about engineering support. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Business News Robotics adi Analog Devices analog garage
Understanding the Differences Between Analog Input and Digital Input in Robotics

Understanding the Differences Between Analog Input and Digital Input in Robotics

Input signals are crucial in robotics, enabling machines to interpret physical conditions like position, force, temperature, and presence. These signals are the foundation for actions performed by robotic systems, such as a robotic arm gripping an object or a conveyor system detecting products. The distinction between analog and digital inputs is significant for engineers and developers in the robotics field. Analog inputs provide continuous data, allowing for nuanced control, while digital inputs offer discrete signals that simplify processing and decision-making. Understanding these differences is essential for optimizing robotic performance and functionality. As robotics technology continues to evolve, the integration of both analog and digital inputs will play a vital role in enhancing machine capabilities. Professionals should monitor advancements in sensor technology and input processing methods to stay ahead in the competitive landscape of robotics.

Analog Devices Reaffirms Strategic Sponsorship with MassRobotics to Support Startups

Analog Devices Reaffirms Strategic Sponsorship with MassRobotics to Support Startups

MassRobotics has announced that Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) has renewed its role as a strategic sponsor. This partnership focuses on providing MassRobotics startups with direct access to ADI’s advanced technologies, including sensor, signal processing, and power management solutions, aimed at addressing complex hardware challenges. The collaboration is significant as it leverages ADI's Analog Garage, an internal venture and incubator group that combines technical expertise with seed funding. This initiative is designed to transform innovative ideas into viable products, enhancing the capabilities of robotics startups within the MassRobotics ecosystem. Looking ahead, the partnership is expected to foster innovation and accelerate the development of next-generation robotics solutions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Boston Dynamics Partners with Analog to Deploy Physical Intelligence in the UAE

Boston Dynamics Partners with Analog to Deploy Physical Intelligence in the UAE

Boston Dynamics and Analog have formed an exclusive partnership to implement Physical Intelligence across the UAE, starting with the deployment of Spot robots. This initiative aims to enhance urban living through park inspections, environmental monitoring, and preventive maintenance, thereby improving operational responsiveness. The significance of this collaboration lies in its potential to transform urban planning and citizen services by integrating advanced AI with real-world applications. The Analog-designed World Model will serve as a sovereign national infrastructure, enabling real-time decision-making and operational efficiency in various public services. Looking ahead, initial deployments will commence with Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport, focusing on inspections and environmental quality. This partnership marks a pivotal step towards broader applications of robotics and AI in the UAE, with no further timeline disclosed at the time of publication.

Introducing IC-STAR: Achieving Full-Flow Autonomy in Silicon Development

Introducing IC-STAR: Achieving Full-Flow Autonomy in Silicon Development

Engineers are transitioning from manual tool management to overseeing AI-driven processes in silicon development. This shift is facilitated by four key technologies that enhance autonomy in silicon design, allowing for more efficient workflows. The real-world application of autonomous AI, as demonstrated by Ambiq, showcases significant improvements in semiconductor design and verification processes. The importance of this transition lies in its potential to accelerate complex engineering tasks, ultimately leading to faster and more efficient product development. By leveraging autonomous AI, engineers can focus on defining objectives rather than managing tools and handoffs, which can streamline the entire silicon development lifecycle. This evolution is crucial for staying competitive in the rapidly advancing semiconductor industry. Looking ahead, the deployment of autonomous AI in production environments will be a focal point for engineers and organizations aiming to enhance their design capabilities. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Type-webinar Artificial-intelligence Ai-agents Silicon
Integra Sources Transforms Coffee Roasters into Smart IoT Devices for Consistency

Integra Sources Transforms Coffee Roasters into Smart IoT Devices for Consistency

Integra Sources has partnered with a coffee roaster manufacturer to convert traditional coffee roasting machines into smart IoT devices. This transformation addresses the challenges of maintaining consistency in flavor, which is critical as businesses scale from single shops to industrial operations. The new system utilizes a controller that aggregates sensor data and communicates with a Raspberry Pi for user interface management, allowing operators to monitor and control the roasting process effectively. The importance of this innovation lies in its ability to minimize human error and adapt to environmental fluctuations, ensuring that each batch of coffee meets customer expectations for flavor consistency. The system features both automated and manual control modes, enabling operators to either follow pre-defined roasting profiles or take full control of the process. This flexibility is crucial for businesses aiming to maintain quality as they expand their operations. Looking ahead, the implementation of this IoT solution could revolutionize the coffee roasting industry by setting new standards for quality control and operational efficiency. The ability to save and upload roasting profiles across machines may also facilitate broader adoption of smart technology in coffee production. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Computing Design Internet automation engineering coffee roasters coffee roasting
川崎重工、シリコンバレーにフィジカルAI拠点を開設 NVIDIA・Microsoft・富士通・Analog Devicesと協業へ

川崎重工、シリコンバレーにフィジカルAI拠点を開設 NVIDIA・Microsoft・富士通・Analog Devicesと協業へ

Kawasaki Heavy Industries announced the opening of the Kawasaki Physical AI Center San Jose in San Jose, California, on May 22, 2026. This new facility aims to accelerate collaboration between Japan and the United States in the fields of artificial intelligence and semiconductors. The center will work closely with major technology companies, including NVIDIA, Analog Devices, Microsoft, and Fujitsu, to promote advancements in physical AI implementation. This initiative reflects Kawasaki's commitment to fostering international partnerships and driving innovation in cutting-edge technology sectors.

Teradyne Robotics and Analog Devices Enter Strategic Partnership to Accelerate the Adoption of AI and Advanced Robotics-Driven Collaborative Automation in Manufacturing

Teradyne Robotics and Analog Devices Enter Strategic Partnership to Accelerate the Adoption of AI and Advanced Robotics-Driven Collaborative Automation in Manufacturing

Teradyne Robotics, a division of Teradyne, Inc., has announced the launch of its latest advanced robotics solutions aimed at enhancing automation in various industries. This development, revealed during a press event in North Reading, Massachusetts, underscores the company's commitment to innovation in robotics technology. The new solutions are designed to improve efficiency and productivity for manufacturers facing increasing demands for automation. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Teradyne Robotics aims to address the challenges of labor shortages and rising operational costs that many businesses are currently experiencing. This initiative reflects the growing trend towards automation as companies seek to streamline operations and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

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