Industry Briefing

We know how to build smarter robots. Now, we need to learn smarter ways to test them

Atharv Kolhar, a staff test automation engineer at Figure AI, emphasizes the urgent need for the robotics industry to adopt a scalable testing philosophy that evolves in tandem with advancements in autonomy. As the industry continues to innovate and develop smarter robots, Kolhar argues that it is equally important to establish more effective testing methodologies to ensure reliability and performance. His insights highlight a critical aspect of robotics development, suggesting that without a robust testing framework, the potential of autonomous systems may not be fully realized. This call for a shift in testing approaches comes at a time when the demand for advanced robotics solutions is rapidly increasing, underscoring the importance of integrating smarter testing strategies into the development process.

How compact cobot integration enhances autonomous mobile robot applications

The integration of collaborative robots, or cobots, is significantly transforming the warehousing industry, with projections indicating a tenfold increase in their usage from 2018 to 2025, according to industry expert Kassow. This surge in adoption highlights the growing reliance on automation to enhance efficiency and productivity in logistics operations. As businesses seek to streamline processes and reduce labor costs, cobots are becoming essential tools for complementing autonomous mobile robots in various applications. The advancements in technology and the increasing demand for flexible automation solutions are driving this trend, positioning cobots as a key component in the future of warehousing.

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General Intuition raises $320M to use video game data to train robots

General Intuition has secured $320 million in funding to enhance its innovative approach to artificial intelligence training for robotics. The company is leveraging video game clips that feature embedded action labels to accelerate the training process for AI systems. This funding will enable General Intuition to further develop its technology, which aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of robotic learning. By utilizing the rich data from video games, the company seeks to provide robots with a more nuanced understanding of actions and environments, ultimately advancing the field of robotics. The investment comes at a time when the demand for sophisticated AI solutions in various industries is on the rise, highlighting the potential impact of General Intuition's work in shaping the future of robotics.

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Flexiv launches new ‘adaptive robots’ for industrial automation

Flexiv has introduced two innovative adaptive robots aimed at enhancing tactile sensing and physical AI capabilities within the realm of industrial automation. The company unveiled its flagship Enlight robotic arm and the Mico dual-arm robotic platform, marking a notable advancement in force-controlled robotics and embodied intelligence. The Enlight arm features a seven-axis design, allowing for greater flexibility and precision in various applications. This launch, which took place recently, underscores Flexiv's commitment to pushing the boundaries of robotics technology to meet the evolving needs of the manufacturing sector. By integrating advanced sensing and control mechanisms, these robots are expected to improve operational efficiency and adaptability in complex industrial environments.

Zhang Yaqin: AI is not a bubble, but AI companies are.

In June, during an interview at the Tsinghua Wuxi Research Institute's Intelligent Industry Innovation Center, Academician Zhang Yaqin discussed the current state of AI investment and entrepreneurship, suggesting a more cautious approach to the rapidly growing sector. Zhang, who founded the Tsinghua University Intelligent Industry Research Institute (AIR) five years ago, noted that while AIR has successfully incubated ten companies with a combined valuation of 150 billion yuan, its primary focus remains on research rather than commercialization. Zhang, a prominent figure in AI and a fellow of the IEEE, likened the current AI investment climate to the internet boom of 1998-1999, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth and cautioning against the potential for market bubbles. He highlighted the need for new AI algorithms to enhance efficiency and pointed out that while the AI sector holds significant long-term potential, many early-stage companies may face challenges in proving their viability. Every June, AIR hosts the "Taihu Dialogue" in Wuxi, fostering discussions on AI advancements. Zhang expressed concerns about the risks associated with high valuations and the necessity for a focused approach in startups. He emphasized that while funding is crucial, it should not overshadow the importance of developing robust products and technologies. Looking ahead, Zhang identified "physical AI" as a key area for development by 2026 and outlined the challenges of creating robots capable of performing complex tasks in real-world environments. He underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry to cultivate talent and drive innovation in AI, while also addressing the ethical and safety risks associated with advanced AI systems.

People want robots in warehouses and factories, not hospitals or schools, Hexagon study finds

A recent study by Hexagon, part of its global Robot Generation research, reveals a growing acceptance of robots in the workplace among both adults and children. The findings indicate that while there is a willingness to integrate robots into various tasks, respondents are establishing clear guidelines regarding their use. Adults showed a preference for robots to perform physical and repetitive tasks, suggesting a desire for efficiency and productivity in the workplace. The study highlights a significant shift in attitudes towards automation, reflecting a balance between embracing technological advancements and maintaining human oversight in job roles. As industries increasingly look to incorporate robotic solutions, understanding these preferences will be crucial for successful implementation.

Video Friday: Give Robots a Hand

IEEE Spectrum robotics has released its latest edition of "Video Friday," showcasing a collection of innovative robotics videos along with a calendar of upcoming robotics events scheduled for 2026. The events include the RSS conference in Sydney from July 13-17, the Summer School on Multi-Robot Systems in Prague from July 29 to August 4, Actuate in San Francisco on August 18-19, and IROS in Pittsburgh from September 27 to October 1. Among the featured videos, Pulkit Agrawal from MIT CSAIL discusses his "SoftMimic" approach to enhancing robot safety around humans. The DARPA Lift Challenge, taking place from August 6-9 at the National Museum of the US Air Force, invites public participation. Notable demonstrations include Agility Robotics' Digit, which showcases advanced footstep planning to navigate obstacles, and DEEP Robotics' aggressive firefighting robot. Additionally, the potential for AI-driven robots to understand whale behavior and communication is explored by Harvard SEAS Professor Stephanie Gil. The edition also highlights discussions with Rodney Brooks, the creator of the Roomba, about the future of robotics. The content aims to engage the robotics community and stimulate interest in technological advancements and their applications.

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Disney’s Parks Revamp Includes Aquatic Robots and Hovering Star Wars Droids

Walt Disney Co. is developing an innovative wooden manta ray prototype at its research and development lab, designed to eventually transform into the character Gramma Tala from the animated film Moana. This prototype, currently supported by scaffolding and measuring approximately the size of a car, is part of a broader initiative to enhance guest experiences at Disney parks. The company plans to introduce this technology at a lagoon attraction in the near future, with additional plans to incorporate a fleet of dolphin-like robots to further enrich the interactive experience. The project reflects Disney's commitment to blending technology with storytelling to create immersive environments for park visitors.

Inside Disney’s Push to Upgrade Its Theme Parks With Robots

Disney is actively enhancing its theme parks by integrating advanced robotics technology to improve guest experiences and operational efficiency. This initiative, which began gaining momentum in 2023, aims to modernize attractions and streamline services across various locations, including Disneyland and Walt Disney World. The motivation behind this push is to create a more immersive and engaging environment for visitors while addressing staffing challenges and rising operational costs. By incorporating robots into various roles, Disney seeks to maintain its reputation for innovation and guest satisfaction in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape. The implementation of robotics involves deploying automated systems for tasks such as guest assistance, maintenance, and even entertainment, allowing human staff to focus on more complex interactions. Disney's investment in this technology reflects a broader trend in the theme park industry, where automation is seen as a solution to enhance efficiency and improve visitor experiences. As Disney continues to roll out these upgrades, the company is committed to ensuring that the integration of robots complements the magical atmosphere that has defined its parks for decades. This strategic move not only aims to elevate the overall guest experience but also positions Disney as a leader in the future of theme park operations.

Orbbec shows AI-powered vision systems at Automate 2026

Orbbec showcased its latest industrial-grade 3D cameras designed for demanding automation environments during the Automate 2026 event. The company emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence to improve robotic perception, highlighting advancements that enable more sophisticated automation solutions. This presentation reflects Orbbec's commitment to addressing the complexities of modern industrial applications, aiming to enhance efficiency and accuracy in robotic systems. The event, which gathered industry leaders and innovators, provided a platform for Orbbec to demonstrate how its technology can meet the evolving needs of automation in various sectors.

Robotaxis drive miles just to get cleaned and charged; this new startup wants to fix that

Aseon Labs, a startup that emerged from Y Combinator's spring 2026 cohort, has successfully secured $10 million in funding. The investment round was led by Crane Venture Partners, among other contributors. This financial boost is aimed at advancing Aseon Labs' innovative projects and expanding its operations in the tech industry. The funding announcement comes as the company seeks to leverage its recent developments and enhance its market presence.

Artificial skin enables robots to simultaneously sense temperature and pressure like humans

A research team from Seoul National University, headed by Professor Seung Hwan Ko, has made significant advancements in artificial skin technology that allows robots to detect both temperature and pressure simultaneously, mimicking the sensory capabilities of human skin. This breakthrough, announced recently, aims to enhance the interaction between robots and their environments, potentially leading to more sophisticated applications in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and service industries. By integrating advanced sensors and materials, the team has developed a system that not only improves robotic sensitivity but also paves the way for more intuitive human-robot interactions. The research highlights the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between human and robotic capabilities, with the ultimate goal of creating machines that can operate safely and effectively alongside people.

Order Picking Network for Optimisation

WITRON is set to transform intralogistics with the introduction of its Order Picking Network (OPN), which emphasizes the integration of warehouse, transport, store, and enterprise operations rather than focusing solely on automation performance. This initiative represents a significant shift in strategy for the company, as highlighted by managing directors Helmut Prieschenk and Karl Högen. By prioritizing overall value creation through enhanced interaction across various logistics levels, WITRON aims to optimize processes and improve efficiency in supply chain management. The OPN initiative reflects the company's commitment to evolving industry standards and meeting the dynamic needs of modern logistics.

The Small Component Problem Behind More Reliable Industrial Robots

In a groundbreaking development for the manufacturing industry, advanced automation technology is transforming assembly lines and semiconductor packaging facilities. A robotic arm, capable of executing movements with sub-millimeter precision at an impressive rate of 300 cycles per minute, is at the forefront of this innovation. These robotic systems are enhanced by machine vision technology, remote input/output blocks, and sensitive microcontrollers, allowing for seamless coordination and efficiency in production processes. This technological advancement is taking place in various industrial settings, where multiple machines share a common power source through an industrial rail system. The integration of heavy CNC machines into this grid further exemplifies the collaborative nature of modern manufacturing, where precision and speed are paramount. The motivation behind this shift towards automation is to increase productivity and reduce human error in manufacturing processes. By leveraging sophisticated robotics and interconnected systems, companies aim to streamline operations and enhance overall output. As industries continue to adopt these cutting-edge technologies, the future of manufacturing looks increasingly automated and efficient, promising significant advancements in production capabilities.

Automation is Leaving the Factory Floor and Moving into the Back Office

For decades, automation has primarily been associated with industrial settings, such as factories and warehouses, where robots and programmable systems efficiently managed repetitive physical tasks. However, recent developments indicate a significant shift in the application of automation beyond traditional environments. As of late 2023, various sectors are increasingly integrating automation into diverse areas, including service industries and everyday consumer interactions. This expansion is driven by the need for enhanced efficiency and precision, as organizations seek to reduce labor costs and improve productivity. The transition is facilitated by advancements in technology, which allow for more sophisticated automation solutions that can adapt to a wider range of tasks. As businesses recognize the potential benefits, the conversation around automation is evolving, highlighting its growing presence in non-industrial contexts.

German Economy Calls for Faster Humanoid Robotics Adoption

A recent survey reveals that 82% of respondents believe humanoid robots will play a crucial role in driving future innovation. Conducted in October 2023, the study highlights the growing public interest in the potential of humanoid robotics across various sectors. Participants expressed optimism about the technology's ability to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and address labor shortages in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and customer service. The findings suggest that as advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics continue, society may increasingly rely on humanoid robots to tackle complex challenges and foster economic growth. This shift reflects a broader trend towards automation and the integration of intelligent systems into everyday life, prompting discussions about the implications for the workforce and ethical considerations surrounding the use of such technology.

LLMs help robots understand vague instructions and focus on key details

Researchers at MIT have developed an innovative approach to enhance the efficiency of robots in performing chores in various environments, including homes and factories. This new method employs a dual-language model system: the first model is designed to interpret and clarify user instructions, while the second model focuses on filtering out irrelevant information that may hinder task execution. This advancement aims to improve the interaction between humans and robots, making it easier for machines to understand and carry out complex tasks effectively. The initiative reflects MIT's commitment to advancing robotics technology and its potential applications in everyday life.

UBTECH Sells 5,000 Companion Robots in Two Weeks, Eyes Consumer Market Breakthrough

UBTECH's U1 full-size humanoid companion robot has garnered significant interest, achieving over 5,000 pre-orders within just three weeks of its launch. This surge in demand highlights a burgeoning consumer appetite for emotional AI technology in China. The U1 robot, designed to interact with users on a personal level, reflects a growing trend towards integrating advanced robotics into daily life. As the market for emotional AI continues to expand, UBTECH's early success with the U1 indicates a promising future for humanoid robots in the region.

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Forget the score, MWC Shanghai’s humanoid robot penalty shootout put embodied AI to the test

At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2026, a fully autonomous humanoid robot penalty shootout emerged as the standout attraction, captivating over 10,000 spectators. The event took place over two days at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, where eight Chinese teams specializing in embodied AI competed in nearly 100 rounds of intense matches. This innovative competition highlighted the advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, drawing significant attention away from traditional smartphone launches and keynote speeches. The enthusiasm surrounding the event underscores the growing interest in AI technologies and their applications in entertainment and sports.

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US: Digit robot maker Agility seeks $620m boost through landmark SPAC listing

Agility Robotics, a company specializing in advanced robotics technology, is poised to go public through a significant merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), valuing the deal at $2.5 billion. This strategic move is expected to enhance the company's visibility and access to capital, enabling it to accelerate its growth and innovation in the robotics sector. The announcement comes amid a growing interest in automation and robotics, driven by increasing demand across various industries. The merger is anticipated to be finalized in the coming months, positioning Agility Robotics to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and further develop its cutting-edge robotic solutions.

Great Robots, Failed Companies: The Business Foundations Automation Startups Skip

Building a successful automation company involves challenges that extend beyond technical capabilities, according to industry experts. While teams may excel at designing functional robots or reliable automated systems, the real hurdles often lie in establishing the necessary business infrastructure to support these technologies. This aspect of development is frequently overlooked, yet it is crucial for turning innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures. As the automation sector continues to grow, addressing these foundational business issues will be essential for companies aiming to thrive in a competitive market.

US firm to deploy humanoid robot teaching assistant in New York schools

Schools across the United States are preparing to integrate humanoid robots into classrooms as part of an innovative educational initiative aimed at enhancing learning experiences. This initiative is set to roll out in early 2024, with various districts collaborating with technology companies to develop and implement these advanced teaching aids. The introduction of humanoid robots is motivated by the desire to engage students in new and interactive ways, fostering interest in subjects such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Educators believe that these robots can provide personalized learning support, assist in teaching complex concepts, and promote collaboration among students. The deployment process will involve training teachers on how to effectively incorporate the robots into their lesson plans, ensuring that they complement traditional teaching methods rather than replace them. Pilot programs will be conducted in select schools to assess the impact of these robots on student engagement and learning outcomes before a wider rollout. As schools embrace this technological advancement, the initiative reflects a growing trend in education to leverage artificial intelligence and robotics to prepare students for a rapidly evolving workforce. The integration of humanoid robots is expected to not only enhance educational experiences but also spark discussions about the future of technology in society.

Hirebotics offers no-code, explosion-proof cobot for painting

Hirebotics has introduced a new no-code, explosion-proof collaborative robot (cobot) designed specifically for stationary painting applications. This innovative technology allows parts to be placed in a designated paint booth, where the cobot autonomously handles all spraying operations. The development aims to enhance safety and efficiency in industrial painting processes, providing manufacturers with a reliable solution that minimizes the risk of explosions while simplifying the operation through its no-code interface. This advancement reflects Hirebotics' commitment to improving automation in the manufacturing sector, making it easier for companies to adopt robotic solutions without extensive programming knowledge.

Robust.AI chooses Aptiv PULSE sensor for Gen 3 Carter mobile robot

Robust.AI has selected Aptiv's PULSE sensor for its third-generation Carter mobile robot, enhancing the robot's ability to navigate safely around people. This collaboration leverages Aptiv's advanced sensor fusion technology, which integrates radar and vision systems powered by artificial intelligence. The integration aims to improve the operational safety and efficiency of the Carter robot in various environments. This development marks a significant step forward in the robotics industry, as it addresses the growing need for autonomous systems to operate safely in human-populated spaces.

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From Fortnite to robots: General Intuition raises $2.3B on bet that video games can train AI agents for the real world

General Intuition has successfully secured $320 million in funding to enhance its artificial intelligence capabilities, which are designed to mimic human intuition by leveraging extensive data from millions of hours of gameplay and betting actions. This significant investment aims to propel the development of AI systems that can better understand and predict human behavior in gaming contexts. The funding round, which reflects growing interest in AI applications within the gaming and betting industries, will enable General Intuition to expand its research and development efforts. The company plans to utilize this capital to refine its algorithms and improve the accuracy of its AI models, ultimately striving to create technology that resonates more closely with human decision-making processes.

National Resilience Strategy Connects the Dots Behind U.S. Drone Policy

The White House has unveiled a new National Resilience Strategy that integrates commercial drones into its broader initiative aimed at bolstering U.S. manufacturing, infrastructure, and supply chain resilience. Although the strategy mentions the commercial drone industry only once, this reference highlights the Administration's perspective on the role of drones in enhancing national capabilities. The strategy reflects an effort to address vulnerabilities in the supply chain and improve overall resilience in response to various challenges. By recognizing the potential of commercial drones, the White House aims to leverage this technology to strengthen critical sectors of the economy.

RoboScience launches Visics, a versatile embodied model for cross-ontology, cross-object, and cross-task applications.

On June 24, RoboScience, a company specializing in embodied intelligence, unveiled its self-developed Visics large model, introducing the innovative VLOA (Vision-Language-Object-Action) architecture. This announcement marks a significant advancement in the field, demonstrating the model's applications in real-world scenarios such as furniture assembly, dexterous grasping, and dynamic assembly lines. The current landscape of embodied intelligence lacks a universally accepted foundational representation unit, which hampers data collection, model learning, and the transfer of knowledge to new contexts. Traditionally, models have focused on replicating specific robotic movements tied to particular tasks, limiting their adaptability to new robots, objects, or environments. Founder and CEO Tian Ye highlighted three major challenges in robotic operations: poor generalization, difficulty in precise manipulation, and cumulative errors in long-range tasks. To address these issues, RoboScience has developed a new foundational representation unit from the ground up. The Visics model employs a dual-engine architecture, consisting of an embodied world model and a universal operation model, each operating independently. The embodied world model utilizes vast amounts of internet video data to learn the physical dynamics of objects, while the operation model translates object trajectories into actionable commands for robots. This layered design enhances the model's generalization capabilities across various robotic platforms and tasks. RoboScience's innovative approach also includes a high-precision simulation engine, RoboMirage, which, combined with automated video data annotation, significantly reduces data acquisition costs. The company aims to build a comprehensive dataset of over 1 terabyte of high-quality manipulation trajectories by 2026. Since its inception, RoboScience has garnered support from multiple investors and established research and production centers in major Chinese cities. The company plans to collaborate with various sectors, including retail and logistics, to standardize robotic products for industrial and commercial applications by the end of this year.

Nvidia Wants to Make Humanoid AI Robots Safer Around Humans

Nvidia is advancing the development of humanoid robots, emphasizing the critical need for these machines to recognize and respond to danger swiftly before they can effectively collaborate with humans. In an interview with Bloomberg's Ed Ludlow, Deepu Talla, Vice President of Robotics and Edge AI at Nvidia, discussed the innovative technologies being designed to enhance robots' situational awareness. This initiative is part of Nvidia's broader efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into robotics, aiming to create safer and more responsive machines for various applications. The conversation highlights the importance of safety in robotics as the industry moves towards more sophisticated and capable humanoid systems.

This $5 Billion Startup Is Putting Humanoid Robots To Work

A $5 billion startup is deploying humanoid robots in Texas, marking a significant step towards a machine-powered future. This initiative, detailed by journalist Joshua Brustein, showcases the startup's ambition to integrate advanced robotics into various sectors, potentially transforming industries and labor dynamics. The move comes amid growing interest in automation and artificial intelligence, as businesses seek innovative solutions to enhance productivity and efficiency. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the startup aims to address labor shortages and streamline operations, indicating a shift in how work may be conducted in the coming years. The deployment of these robots in Texas serves as a pilot for broader applications, reflecting the increasing acceptance of robotics in everyday tasks.

Roundtable: When Will Robots Enter Real Scenarios Amid Widespread Bubble Awareness?

In 2026, the investment landscape in China is witnessing a significant shift as artificial intelligence (AI) transitions from a conceptual technology to a driving force in various industries. The WAVES 2026 conference, hosted by 36Kr and AnYun, took place in Guangzhou's Panyu district, bringing together top investors, industry leaders, and emerging entrepreneurs to explore the evolving landscape of AI, hard technology, and healthcare through 14 in-depth roundtable discussions and numerous independent speeches. Prominent figures in the field, including CEOs and CTOs from leading tech companies, gathered to discuss the potential of embodied intelligence—a rapidly growing sector attracting substantial investment. The discussions highlighted the challenges and opportunities within this domain, particularly regarding the commercialization of robotics and AI technologies. Participants shared insights on the current state of the market, with some companies already generating revenue through innovative applications of AI in various sectors. However, concerns about market bubbles and the sustainability of investments were also raised, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the underlying business models and real-world applications. As the conference concluded, the consensus among attendees was that while the industry is still in its infancy, the potential for growth and innovation remains vast, driven by a new generation of entrepreneurs eager to redefine the future of technology in China.

AGRIST partners with Microsoft to tackle global food challenges using AI harvesting robots in advanced agricultural applications.

AGRIST Corporation, based in Shintomi Town, Miyazaki Prefecture, showcased its innovative use of physical AI in smart agriculture at the Microsoft AI Co-Innovation Lab KOBE annual event. The event took place on June 10, 2026, at the Kobe Asahi Hall. AGRIST's presentation highlighted advanced examples of how artificial intelligence can enhance agricultural practices, demonstrating the company's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into farming. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and productivity in the agricultural sector, reflecting a broader trend towards modernization in farming techniques.

Robots that can identify materials and map unknown environments could aid nuclear and defense sectors

Researchers at the University of Surrey are developing advanced robots capable of surpassing human vision, creating live 3D maps of unfamiliar environments, and determining the composition of various objects. This innovative technology, which is currently in development, has the potential to revolutionize several fields, including nuclear inspection, rail and building safety, and search and rescue operations in combat zones. By enhancing robotic capabilities, the team aims to improve safety and efficiency in critical situations where human intervention may be risky or impractical. The project highlights the university's commitment to pioneering research that addresses real-world challenges through cutting-edge technology.

Swarm Robots Inspired by Bees and Ants Could Transform the Future of Mining

Researchers at Adelaide University have unveiled an innovative robotic system modeled after the behaviors of bees and ants, aiming to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the mining industry. This development comes as part of ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced in mining operations, where traditional methods often pose risks to workers and the environment. By mimicking the collective intelligence and collaborative strategies of these insects, the new robotic system is designed to optimize resource extraction processes while minimizing ecological impact. The research team believes that this approach could revolutionize mining practices, making them more adaptable and less hazardous. The project highlights the potential of biomimicry in engineering solutions that align with environmental sustainability goals.

Swarm robots inspired by bees and ants could transform the future of mining

A team of researchers at Adelaide University has unveiled an innovative robotic system designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the mining industry. Drawing inspiration from the collaborative behaviors of bees and ants, this new technology aims to transform traditional mining practices. The development comes at a crucial time when the industry faces increasing pressure to adopt more environmentally friendly methods and improve worker safety. By mimicking the social structures and collective decision-making processes of these insects, the robotic system is expected to optimize resource extraction while minimizing environmental impact. This advancement not only highlights the potential for robotics in industrial applications but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing contemporary challenges in mining.

Underwater robots that are always on call pave the way for pipeline and cable security

As economic activity in ocean spaces continues to rise, there is an increasing demand for regular monitoring and inspection of underwater infrastructure, including pipelines, cables, and installations. This need is driven by the growing complexity of global security concerns, which necessitate enhanced surveillance capabilities. Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are emerging as vital tools in this effort, offering advanced monitoring solutions that can operate in challenging environments. Furthermore, there is a pressing requirement for greater understanding of the seabed and oceanic regions to support sustainable development and security measures. As stakeholders seek to address these challenges, the integration of AUV technology is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underwater assets.

NVIDIA's Halos for Robotics: A New Era for Industrial Robot Safety

Recent advancements in industrial robotics have marked a significant milestone in the integration of physical artificial intelligence. Over the past few years, the field has experienced unprecedented growth, with AI evolving beyond mere data analysis and text generation. Now, machines equipped with this technology can perceive their surroundings, make real-time decisions, and interact directly with their environment. This transformation is highlighted in a recent article discussing NVIDIA's Halos for Robotics, which emphasizes the new era of safety in industrial robots. The developments signal a shift in how robots operate, enhancing their capabilities and effectiveness in various industrial applications.

Path Tracking Control for Crawler Robots With Track Slippage and Signal Time Delay Based on Pure Pursuit and Look‐Ahead Heading Error Compensation

A recent study published in the Journal of Field Robotics highlights advancements in autonomous robotic systems designed for agricultural applications. Conducted by a team of researchers from various institutions, the study was released in early October 2023. The research focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of farming practices. The motivation behind this study stems from the increasing demand for sustainable agricultural solutions amid global food security challenges. By employing innovative robotic technologies, the researchers aim to address labor shortages and improve crop management. The study outlines the development of a prototype robot capable of performing tasks such as planting, monitoring, and harvesting crops with minimal human intervention. Field tests were conducted in diverse agricultural settings to evaluate the robot's performance and adaptability. The findings indicate that the robotic systems can significantly reduce operational costs and increase yield, offering a promising solution for modern farming challenges. This research not only contributes to the field of robotics but also provides valuable insights for farmers seeking to adopt new technologies for enhanced productivity.

Linear System Identification and Control of a Low‐Cost High‐Performance Omnidirectional Marine Surface Vehicle for Swarming Applications

The Journal of Field Robotics has published an early view article highlighting advancements in robotic technology aimed at enhancing agricultural efficiency. Researchers from various institutions collaborated on this study, which was released in October 2023. The article focuses on the development of autonomous robots designed to optimize crop management and reduce labor costs in farming practices. This initiative is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable agricultural solutions amid a growing global population. The team employed cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to enable robots to perform tasks such as planting, monitoring crop health, and harvesting with minimal human intervention. Field tests conducted in diverse agricultural settings demonstrated the robots' effectiveness in improving yield while minimizing resource usage. The findings suggest that integrating robotics into farming could significantly address labor shortages and enhance food production efficiency. As the agricultural sector faces mounting pressures from climate change and economic constraints, this research underscores the potential of technology to transform traditional farming methods and promote sustainability.

Kraken Robotics Inc. (PNG:CA) Shareholder/Analyst Call - Slideshow

Qualcomm vs. Nvidia and drones vs. dogs

Qualcomm has made significant strides in the semiconductor industry, unveiling its ambitious data center chip roadmap during its annual investor day in New York on June 25, 2026. CEO Cristiano Amon highlighted the company's new AI accelerator platform and innovative chip architecture known as high-bandwidth compute (HBC), which aims to enhance AI processing by reducing data travel distances and energy consumption. This announcement comes amid a busy day for the tech sector, where Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang reaffirmed the long-term demand for AI infrastructure, and Micron reported strong earnings, alleviating investor concerns about a potential "AI bubble." Qualcomm's focus on the China market is particularly noteworthy, as the country accounted for 46% of its revenue in 2025. Amon indicated that the company is designing chips tailored for Chinese customers while adhering to U.S. export controls. This strategic move aims to leverage Qualcomm's existing relationships with Chinese smartphone manufacturers to expand its data center business. Meanwhile, Nvidia's AI chips have seen a dramatic price increase in China's black market, driven by strong demand and U.S. export restrictions. The price of Nvidia's flagship DGX B300 server has surged to over 8 million yuan ($1.1 million), reflecting the ongoing challenges in accessing these sought-after technologies. In a separate development, Australian farmers are increasingly turning to drones and AI technologies for livestock management, potentially replacing traditional herding dogs. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of agricultural practices as new generations of farmers adopt innovative solutions to enhance efficiency in managing livestock.

AGIBOT Brings APC 2026 to Thailand, Building a Professional Partner Ecosystem to Accelerate Local Deployment of Embodied AI

AGIBOT has officially launched the AGIBOT Partner Conference 2026 in Thailand, aiming to create a professional partner ecosystem that will expedite the integration of embodied AI and humanoid robots in various sectors. This initiative, in collaboration with VST ECS (Thailand), represents a pivotal step in AGIBOT's dedication to boosting local technological engagement and productivity through cutting-edge AI solutions. The conference serves as a platform for industry leaders to discuss advancements and foster partnerships that will drive innovation in the region.

Rough demos unlock precise robot actions, with up to fourfold real-world gains

Advancements in robotics are leading to the development of highly dexterous robots that are becoming integral to both daily life and industrial applications. These robots are capable of performing intricate tasks, such as assembling small components for smartphones and aiding surgeons during operations. However, the traditional method of training these robots to replicate delicate human movements has been labor-intensive and costly, requiring extensive data collection at precise time intervals. This challenge has prompted researchers to seek more efficient training methods to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, ultimately aiming to reduce the time and financial burden associated with their development. As the demand for precision in various sectors grows, the evolution of robotic dexterity is expected to play a crucial role in improving efficiency and effectiveness across multiple fields.

First educational event in Japan featuring humanoid demonstrations and physical AI experiences at elementary schools on June 26.

Play Robotics, a company specializing in safety evaluation and support for the integration of humanoid robots, is set to host a Physical AI Experience event on June 26, 2026. The event will take place at Shiroyama Elementary School in Inagi City. This initiative aims to provide participants with hands-on experiences to explore the capabilities and safety of humanoid robots, promoting awareness and understanding of AI technologies in educational environments. Through interactive demonstrations and activities, attendees will gain insights into the practical applications of robotics and artificial intelligence in everyday life.

Amazon's Zoox unveils redesigned robotaxi ahead of upcoming expansion

Zoox, the autonomous vehicle division of Amazon, is set to enhance its robotaxi services as it plans to expand into new markets and introduce paid rides. The company aims to improve its technology and operational capabilities to meet growing demand for innovative transportation solutions. This strategic move comes as Zoox prepares to transition from a testing phase to a commercial model, allowing users to access rides for a fee. The expansion reflects Amazon's commitment to advancing its presence in the autonomous vehicle sector and capitalizing on the increasing interest in self-driving technology.