Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
SoftBank Robotics Debuting Autonomous Cooking Robots ‘STEAMA’ and ‘FLAMA’ in the US
SoftBank Robotics is set to introduce its autonomous cooking robots, the “STEAMA” and “FLAMA” systems, to the U.S. market. This announcement comes as the company aims to expand its food automation business beyond Japan. The robots will make their debut at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026, scheduled to take place in Chicago later this month. The introduction of these innovative cooking systems reflects SoftBank's commitment to enhancing efficiency in the food industry and meeting the growing demand for automation in restaurant operations.
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Interview with Jun Wu of GMEX Robotics: ‘We provide an integrated terminal + brain closed-loop system’
As artificial intelligence continues to capture public attention, experts emphasize that the future of robotics hinges on more than just advanced software. While numerous companies are focused on creating sophisticated AI systems and foundation models, there is a growing consensus that the true challenge lies in integrating this intelligence with reliable hardware capable of functioning effectively in the physical environment. This perspective highlights the need for a holistic approach to robotics, where both software and hardware advancements are essential for achieving practical and efficient robotic solutions.
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Aniai Launches New Robotic Cooking System for Small Spaces
Aniai has introduced a compact version of its Alpha Grill cooking robot, specifically designed for businesses with limited kitchen space. The new model, known as the Alpha Grill Single Platen, was developed in direct response to feedback from convenience store operators who are seeking automated cooking solutions that require a smaller footprint. This innovation aims to meet the growing demand for efficient cooking equipment in environments where space is at a premium.
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World's First Robot Elderly Care Station Opens in Beijing with Over 40 Robots
Beijing has unveiled the world's first smart elderly care station, equipped with more than 40 robots designed to assist with various tasks such as cooking, providing companionship, and facilitating rehabilitation. This groundbreaking facility, which aims to integrate advanced technology into daily care for seniors, responds to the increasing demand for support as the global population ages. By leveraging robotics, the initiative seeks to enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance and companionship in a rapidly changing demographic landscape.
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Humanoid Robot Showcases Cooking Skills in Live Demo of Xinjiang Dishes
A humanoid robot demonstrated its culinary abilities by preparing traditional Xinjiang dishes during a live show in Yining City, China. The robot successfully grilled kebabs and skewered meat, showcasing its coordination and force control after less than a week of specialized training, although it still lagged behind experienced chefs. This demonstration is significant as it highlights the advancements in embodied artificial intelligence and robotic dexterity, particularly in complex tasks like food preparation. The event took place on July 15, emphasizing the potential for humanoid robots to tackle real-world challenges that require precision and adaptability. Looking ahead, the demonstration served as a precursor to the second World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, scheduled for August 22 to 26. This event will further showcase the progress in humanoid robotics and their applications in various sectors beyond manufacturing, such as hospitality and healthcare.
AI and Robotics
Shenzhen's Stardust Intelligence secures over 1 billion in Series B funding, valuation exceeds 10 billion.
Astribot, a Shenzhen-based AI robotics company, has successfully completed a Series B funding round, raising over 1 billion yuan within three months. The financing was backed by various investors, including established firms like Liangxi Kechuang and several returning shareholders. With a valuation surpassing 10 billion yuan, Astribot joins the ranks of Shenzhen's unicorns, previously attracting investments from major players like Tencent and Alibaba. Founded in 2022 by CEO Lai Jie, who has over 17 years of experience in AI and robotics, Astribot focuses on creating robots that can think and operate like humans. The company has developed a comprehensive self-research system integrating AI models with a unique operating system tailored for their robotic bodies. Their latest product, the T1 model, is designed for various tasks, including cooking and industrial applications, and is priced starting at 89,900 yuan. Astribot's innovative approach emphasizes a dual-system framework, allowing robots to respond quickly to immediate tasks while also planning for more complex operations. This model, known as DuoCore, enhances the robots' adaptability in real-world environments. Additionally, Astribot is the first company globally to mass-produce rope-driven AI robots, which mimic human muscle movements, offering improved performance and safety for close interactions. As the company continues to expand its product offerings, it is establishing a strong presence in sectors such as research, commercial services, and entertainment, demonstrating its capability for large-scale deliveries.
Video Friday: AI Gives Robot Hands Human-Like Dexterity
IEEE Spectrum robotics has released its weekly roundup of notable robotics videos, along with a calendar of upcoming robotics events scheduled for 2026. Key events include ICRA 2026 in Vienna from June 1-5, and the Summer School on Multi-Robot Systems in Prague from July 29 to August 4. Among the highlights is the introduction of GENE-26.5, an AI brain that enables robots to perform complex tasks such as cooking, conducting lab experiments, and playing the piano, showcasing significant advancements in robotic capabilities. Another featured robot, Labububot, is a unique creation that critiques social robots through its design, merging various pop culture elements into a single entity. In other developments, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is testing next-generation helicopter rotor blades on Mars, achieving speeds that exceed Mach 1 in a simulated Martian atmosphere. Additionally, Boston Dynamics is balancing commercial interests with robotics research through its Atlas robot, while the Robomechanics Lab has introduced Sally, a magnetic-wheeled robot designed for inspecting steel structures, capable of navigating challenging interior corners. These innovations reflect the ongoing evolution in robotics, driven by advancements in AI and engineering, as the field continues to explore new applications and capabilities.
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Video Friday: Beep! Beep! Roadrunner Bipedal Bot Breaks the Mold
IEEE Spectrum robotics has released its weekly roundup of notable robotics videos and events. Among the highlights is the introduction of "Roadrunner," a new bipedal wheeled robot prototype that can switch between various locomotion modes, designed for enhanced navigation. Weighing approximately 15 kg, it features symmetric legs that can adapt for obstacle avoidance and movement management. NASA has announced two ambitious missions: SkyFall, which will deploy next-generation helicopters on Mars to scout landing sites and map subsurface water ice, and MoonFall, aimed at preparing for future Artemis missions by sending drones to explore the lunar South Pole. These drones will operate independently for 14 Earth days, surveying challenging terrains. In research advancements, a team from MIT has developed Electrofluidic Fiber Muscles, a new class of soft and flexible artificial muscles for robots and wearables, promising improved agility and integration into textiles. Additionally, the open-source quadruped robot MEVIUS2 has been unveiled, capable of climbing stairs and steep slopes. Other innovations include a wristband from MIT that allows users to control a robotic hand through their own movements, and a cooking robot from Zhejiang Lab that autonomously processes ingredients and performs cooking tasks with high precision. The CMU Robotics Institute is set to host a seminar by Hadas Kress-Gazit from Cornell, focusing on the role of formal methods in robotics amidst the rise of big data.
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Innovative Origami-Based Soft Robotic Arm Can Lift 686 Grams and Cook
Researchers at Northeastern University have created a groundbreaking soft robotic arm that utilizes origami-inspired structures for its joints. This innovative arm can lift weights of up to 686 grams and is designed to perform various cooking tasks. The team’s approach not only simplifies the construction process but also improves the precision of control, highlighting the promising applications of origami in the field of robotics. This development opens new avenues for lightweight and flexible robotic solutions, potentially transforming how robots can be integrated into everyday tasks.
Soft Robotics Origami Engineering 3D Printing Robotic Manipulation
Chinese firm eyes 2027 home robot launch with Wuhan pilot and sub-$15K pricing
Chinese tech company GigaAI has launched what it claims to be the first commercial robotic butler, marking a significant advancement in home automation technology. The unveiling took place at a technology expo in Beijing on October 15, 2023. This innovative device aims to enhance everyday living by performing various household tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, and providing companionship, thereby addressing the growing demand for smart home solutions. The motivation behind GigaAI's development of the robotic butler stems from the increasing interest in automation and artificial intelligence among consumers, who seek convenience and efficiency in their daily routines. The company has integrated advanced AI algorithms and machine learning capabilities into the device, allowing it to adapt to individual household needs and preferences. During the launch event, GigaAI demonstrated the butler's functionalities, showcasing its ability to navigate complex home environments and interact with family members. The company plans to begin commercial sales in early 2024, with the goal of making this technology accessible to a broader audience. As the market for smart home devices continues to expand, GigaAI's robotic butler could potentially revolutionize the way people manage their households, setting a new standard in the industry.
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
