Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
DIC Corp. Invests in Mantis Robotics to Advance Physical AI Technologies
DIC Corp. has made a strategic investment in Mantis Robotics, marking the inaugural deal from its $62 million DIC D2S Ventures fund. This investment aims to enhance Mantis' development of fenceless industrial robots, particularly the MR-1, which has recently achieved safety certification. The collaboration will focus on integrating DIC's materials and sensing technologies with Mantis' robotics capabilities. This partnership is significant as it highlights DIC's commitment to expanding into the physical AI sector, which is seen as a key growth area. Mantis Robotics, founded in 2020, is poised for commercial expansion across logistics, electronics, and automotive manufacturing, leveraging its innovative robotic solutions. The safety certification of the MR-1 is expected to drive further momentum in the industrial automation market. Looking ahead, both companies plan to explore advanced tactile and sensing systems, robotic fingers, and lightweight components. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication, but the collaboration is anticipated to yield significant advancements in human-robot collaboration and productivity in industrial settings.
Business & Markets Enterprise automation DIC Corp. investment Japan
Robotics Price War Intensifies as Mantis Standard Launches Affordable Wheeled Humanoid
The ongoing price war in robotics reveals a significant challenge: most humanoid robots remain as fixed, one-time purchases. According to Counterpoint Research, global shipments of humanoid robots are expected to exceed 22,000 units in the first half of 2026, marking a nearly 300% year-on-year increase. However, over 60% of these robots are used for entertainment and educational purposes, with only 13% in smart manufacturing and a mere 5% in logistics. Despite some price reductions making humanoid robots more accessible, the distinction between a functional robot and a large toy is not as clear-cut as anticipated. The most valuable capabilities for robots are still their ability to perform tasks effectively, which is rarely achieved by low-cost models. On September 14, the company launched its first modular wheeled humanoid robot, Mantis Standard, priced at 9,800 yuan, featuring an omnidirectional wheel chassis, a 7-degree-of-freedom robotic arm, and a 4K60fps dual-vision system. The design of Mantis Standard emphasizes practicality over performance, as wheeled humanoid robots are deemed more suitable for industrial applications compared to bipedal models. PwC's report supports this view, highlighting wheeled robots' advantages in efficient movement and terrain adaptability for commercial applications. Since 2025, the parallel development of wheeled and bipedal robots has been evident, with many companies incorporating both into their product lines, showcasing wheeled robots' stability and flexibility in service and light industries.
Humanoid Robots Modular Robotics Wheeled Robots Robot Automation
Mantis Robotics launches dual-arm, fenceless robot
Mantis Robotics has introduced a groundbreaking dual-arm, fenceless robot designed to enhance automation flexibility in intricate real-world settings. This innovative technology aims to address the challenges of configuring automation systems in environments that require adaptability and precision. The launch of this robot marks a significant advancement in robotics, as it allows for more versatile applications across various industries. Mantis Robotics emphasizes that this new solution can transform how businesses approach automation, enabling them to optimize operations without the constraints of traditional safety barriers.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Cobot Arms Collaborative Robots Design / Development News
Mantis Robotics Extends Potential of Physical AI with New Dual-Arm Fenceless Robot for Industrial and Retail Automation
Mantis Robotics has introduced its latest innovation, the MR-X dual-arm robot, at Automate 2026 in Chicago, showcasing advancements in physical AI for industrial and retail automation. This high-performance robot, capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and operating at speeds of 10.6 m/s, is designed to function without safety fences, allowing for flexible deployment in complex environments. The MR-X is inspired by human biomechanics, enabling it to perform demanding tasks that require both strength and dexterity. Its patented SafetyCore platform provides continuous awareness of its surroundings, allowing the robot to autonomously react to nearby humans without interrupting its operations. This feature eliminates the need for traditional safety infrastructure, enhancing efficiency while maintaining safety standards. Mantis Robotics aims to revolutionize automation with the MR-X, which builds on the success of its predecessor, the MR-1, known for its certified fenceless operation. CEO Gerry Vannuffelen emphasized that the MR-X is not just another humanoid robot, but a first-in-class dual-arm system that surpasses both collaborative robots and humanoids in speed and safety. Visitors to Booth 1261 in the South Hall at Automate 2026 can witness the MR-X's capabilities firsthand, interact with the MR-1, and explore the technology that enables rapid deployment without disruption. Mantis Robotics invites attendees to schedule personalized walkthroughs and learn about priority access for early customers.
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