A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
The rapid increase in robot model parameters has not been matched by the availability of high-quality physical interaction data. Current compliant data in China stands at only 500,000 hours, while commercial deployment requires tens of millions of hours, resulting in a gap exceeding 99%. The China A...
Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes have integrated humanoid robots into their production lines, marking a significant shift from prototype to real-world application in heavy industry. Tesla's Optimus robots are deployed in Fremont and Texas factories, assisting in battery assembly and wiring tasks, while BMW...
The KUAVO-VLA1.0 model can perceive images, follow instructions, and understand environments, but it must adapt to specific factory conditions such as arm length and joint movement before being deployed. This adaptation process involves retraining for new tasks, which increases costs and learning ti...
The University of Toronto's Robotics Institute has introduced CRAFT, a modular design library for continuum robots, featuring six types of 3D-printed modules based on flexible hinges. This library aims to enhance the versatility of continuum robots, which can bend continuously without rigid joints,...
Delta Electronics has received the prestigious BIG SEE Product Design Award 2026 for its Delta D-Bot series of collaborative robots. This award highlights exceptional achievements in product design and industrial innovation, showcasing Delta's commitment to sustainability and creativity in technolog...
Mercedes-Benz's core dealer, Bosh Group, has announced a partnership with UBTECH to become the first official 4S store for humanoid robots in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. This strategic move targets high-net-worth consumers who are more receptive to new technologies, leveraging the dealership's...
Mercedes-Benz dealerships have begun selling humanoid robots, specifically the U1 model from UBTECH, through a partnership with the Bosh Group. This initiative allows customers in the Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei regions to experience and purchase these advanced robots, which can engage with customer...
Over the past year, the robotics industry has engaged in a competitive race focused on enhancing the computational power, parameters, and algorithms of robotic 'brains.' While advancements in reasoning capabilities are evident, robots still struggle with basic tasks such as grasping objects or perfo...
The Journal of Field Robotics has published a comprehensive review focusing on the adsorption-locomotion codesign of wall-climbing robots. This review highlights the intricate relationship between the robots' ability to adhere to surfaces and their locomotion capabilities, which are crucial for perf...
When purchasing mobile robots directly from a Chinese manufacturer, companies must conduct thorough cybersecurity checks. Beyond performance and cost, they need to assess data flows, remote access, updates, and maintenance conditions, as these robots integrate into the industrial IT system. A French...
Researchers from the University of Glasgow have conducted a study to improve the design of social robots, focusing on their emotional appeal. By utilizing augmented reality, they tested various combinations of faces and voices on the Qoobo robot, which has a cushion-like body and a swinging tail. Th...
Destro, a startup focused on integrating AI with robotics, emerged from stealth with an $8 million seed funding. Unlike traditional robotics firms, Destro has developed an AI intelligence layer that enhances logistics operations by coordinating both robots and human workers. This innovative approach...
In mid-September, Agility Robotics launched its fifth-generation humanoid robot, Digit 5. The company, which has been developing bipedal robots for over a decade, has seen its flagship product, Digit, deployed in various facilities including Amazon and Toyota Canada. According to the company, it has...
On September 20, Shangwei New Materials launched two personal robots under its consumer brand, Qiyuan Robotics, targeting the personal and family market. CEO Tian Hua stated that their goal is to position their products as the 'Apple of robotics.' However, following the launch, the company's stock p...
Humanoid robots are transitioning from labs to workplaces, prompting European companies to address compliance issues. As the EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 comes into effect on January 20, 2027, demonstrating conformity for walking humanoid robots is becoming critical for industrial director...
Universal Robots has unveiled its new Gen 7 platform at IMTS 2026, showcasing a completely redesigned robot platform. This launch signifies a significant advancement in robotic technology, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation in automation solutions. The introduction of the Gen 7 platf...
The humanoid robotics sector has long promised productivity, with expectations for significant sales by 2026. Humanoid robots are now capable of walking, sorting components, and performing increasingly complex industrial tasks. However, industrial buyers are shifting their focus from impressive demo...
Europe has established itself with leaders like Airbus in aerospace and has a strong presence in various industries. However, as robotics evolves, the question arises: who will manufacture the robots that will work in factories, warehouses, hospitals, and potentially homes in the future? With advanc...
The robotics industry is witnessing a transition from showcasing humanoid robots to practical deployments. At Unitree Robotics' booth, bipedal robots demonstrated impressive skills in activities like table tennis and combat, showcasing advancements in speed and balance. However, other exhibitors hig...
Surgeons face significant challenges when locating small lung nodules, particularly those under 8 millimeters that may indicate early-stage lung cancer. Traditional CT-guided methods require multiple scans and lengthy procedures, increasing the risk of complications. Dr. Wang Jiyong, head of thoraci...
A recent study by ethologists at ELTE revealed that visitors at public events were more likely to notice an autonomous service robot than a human server. The experiment found that candy offered by the robot was taken more quickly, indicating a higher level of curiosity and engagement with the roboti...
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are rapidly transforming industrial automation, moving beyond traditional fixed conveyors and AGVs. Their flexibility meets the evolving demands of logistics driven by e-commerce growth, product customization, and labor shortages. AMRs utilize advanced technologies l...
Tesla's Optimus robots will not be used to repair Starmind satellites in orbit, as confirmed by recent statements from Elon Musk. Instead, these robots are intended to assist in the construction and operation of the Terafab chip manufacturing facility in Texas. The AI1 satellites, designed to disint...
VivaTech 2026, held at Porte de Versailles in Paris on June 17 and 18, marked its tenth anniversary by highlighting significant advancements in artificial intelligence and the maturation of robotics. The event showcased the growing trend of humanoid robots transitioning into industrial applications,...
Generative Bionics has showcased two new bipedal robot prototypes capable of navigating outdoor environments. CEO Daniele Pucci revealed that these robots were designed and sent to batch production within three months, utilizing 'Physical AI' for motor control and reinforcement learning for movement...
Researchers have developed a novel FiberMotor that operates similarly to a telescope, providing enhanced power for soft robots and wearable technology. This advancement is significant as it opens new possibilities for the integration of robotics in various applications, particularly in health and pe...
DEEP Robotics has conducted a field test of its humanoid robots, designed as new traffic guides, on public roads in the Xihu District of Hangzhou, China. The test, which took place on October 7, 2026, showcased the robots' autonomous navigation and dynamic obstacle avoidance capabilities in complex...
Researchers from York University have introduced the Convergent Binocular Stereo (CBS) algorithm to improve depth perception in humanoid robots. This innovative approach utilizes the movement of the robot's eyes, allowing them to converge on a target while calculating depth based on camera orientati...
The primary bottleneck for humanoid robots is not just AI model limitations but also supply chain constraints. A recent McKinsey report highlights that critical hardware components such as precision motor systems and tactile sensing are high-risk areas that won't automatically improve with algorithm...
At the 2026 IFA in Berlin, Batten & Kamp introduced 'Beauty Seeker,' a unique creation combining an AI six-legged robot with an orchid, transforming it into a mobile vase. This design intentionally diverges from mainstream technology narratives by stripping the robot of its built-in camera and multi...
Over the past three years, CMA CGM has invested €500 million in artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives. This investment includes a confidential contract with Google and a €100 million agreement over five years with French company Mistral. The significant financial commitment by CMA CGM highlights...
The second edition of the World Humanoid Robot Games concluded at Beijing's Ice Ribbon, featuring 666 teams and 2,056 robots competing in 51 events. This year's focus shifted from merely achieving speed to demonstrating dexterity and autonomy in real-world scenarios. This evolution in the competiti...
Chinese robotics continues to progress, showcasing innovative products like stair-climbing vacuum robots and humanoid models at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. However, American consumers and businesses may not have access to these advancements due to ongoing technology conflicts be...
SpaceX's Starmind project, aimed at deploying up to 1 million AI satellites, was filed with the FCC on January 30, 2026. The initiative is designed to minimize reliance on external suppliers, with CEO Elon Musk stating that current chip production capabilities only meet 2% of the projected needs. Th...
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,...
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 toge...
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, evolving beyond mere data analysis and text generation. Now, AI technology is enabling machi...
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...
Alibaba, the Chinese technology giant, has unveiled its inaugural family of embodied AI models, marking a significant advancement in artificial intelligence technology. This launch, which took place recently, aims to enhance the interaction between humans and machines by integrating large language m...
A recent series highlights the evolution of robots from basic machinery to essential instruments across various sectors, including caregiving, industrial automation, and education. This transformation has been particularly significant in challenging environments, where advanced robotic technology is...
Humanoid robots are undergoing a transformation in their design, as a Shanghai-based knitting design company leads an innovative collaboration to enhance their social acceptance. By dressing these robots in soft, intricately knitted exteriors, the initiative addresses both aesthetic concerns and use...
A recent study led by Cornell Tech is exploring the integration of robots in hospitals and care facilities, focusing on their impact on both caregivers and patients. The research involves collaboration with health care workers, long-term care residents, and community members to actively participate...
Experts from Rovex Technologies, SKA Robotics, and ST Engineering Aethon are set to engage in discussions about the design considerations for hospital robotics at the upcoming Robotics Summit. This event, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of logistics robots in healthcare settings,...
In a recent conversation, Claire engaged with Andrew Philippides, a Professor of Biorobotics at the University of Sussex, to explore insights from the behaviors of ants and bees that could enhance robot navigation systems. Philippides, who co-directs the Centre for Computational Neuroscience and Rob...
In a recent study published in the Journal of Field Robotics, researchers explored advancements in robotic technologies aimed at enhancing agricultural efficiency. The research, conducted by a team of scientists from various institutions, was released in May 2026 and highlights the integration of au...
In May 2026, the Journal of Field Robotics published a significant study exploring advancements in robotic technology. Researchers from various institutions collaborated to investigate the applications of autonomous robots in diverse fields, including agriculture, disaster response, and environmenta...
Researchers at Southern Methodist University (SMU) have developed an innovative electromagnetic coil system capable of controlling microrobots without the need for continuous visual tracking. This advancement, unveiled recently, holds significant potential for applications in various fields, includi...
The Journal of Field Robotics has published an early view article highlighting advancements in robotic technology. Researchers from various institutions have collaborated to explore innovative applications of robotics in diverse fields, including agriculture, healthcare, and environmental monitoring...
Epson Robots, recognized as the leading SCARA robot manufacturer globally, has announced its participation in three prominent industry tradeshows scheduled for early 2026. The events include DesignCon 2026, APEX Expo, and the Manufacturing & Automation eXchange. This strategic move aims to showcase...
A recent study published in the Journal of Field Robotics highlights advancements in robotic technology aimed at enhancing agricultural efficiency. Researchers from various universities collaborated on this project, focusing on the development of autonomous robots designed to assist in crop monitori...
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
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