Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
New US Photonics Design Platform Accelerates 1.6T Chip Development for Data Centers
Researchers in the United States have introduced a novel photonics design platform aimed at expediting the creation of high-performance chips for data centers. OpenLight, a semiconductor company based in California, and Israeli chipmaker Tower Semiconductor have enhanced their PH18DA photonics ecosystem by launching OpenLight’s photonic Process Design Kit (PDK), now accessible through Cadence’s electronic design automation tools. This open-platform design kit offers engineers a comprehensive library of components for developing custom Photonic Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (PASICs) and simplifies the process of creating photonic integrated circuits (PICs). The technology supports 400G and 1.6T photonic circuits, potentially streamlining the transition from design to production on the PH18D platform, according to OpenLight CEO Adam Carter. The integration of this PDK into Cadence tools is expected to facilitate the design of photonic integrated circuits alongside conventional integrated circuits. The collaboration aims to enhance the development of advanced optical systems, with a focus on improving performance, power efficiency, and scalability for next-generation optics solutions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and Robotics
Emerson Unveils DeltaV Automation Platform for AI-Scale Data Center Management
Emerson has introduced its DeltaV Automation Platform for Data Centers, which features an automation portfolio tailored for AI-scale data centers. This platform integrates thermal, mechanical, and electrical subsystems within a scalable architecture, enhancing the monitoring and control of data center infrastructure. The significance of this development lies in its ability to reduce engineering efforts, simplify integration, and improve consistency across commissioning, operations, and maintenance. Nathan Pettus, president of Emerson’s process systems and solutions business, emphasized that data center performance is increasingly reliant on the collaboration of critical systems rather than individual components. Looking ahead, the DeltaV Automation Platform aims to provide operators with unified visibility and coordinated control, enabling predictable project commissioning and reliable large-scale operations. Emerson's platform includes the DeltaV distributed control system and DeltaV programmable logic controllers, both of which leverage AI technologies for enhanced integration of optimization models.
Factory / Analytics
SoftBank and NTT Collaborate on Cross-Industry AI and Data Sharing Platform in Japan
SoftBank Corp. and NTT are spearheading a collaborative effort involving numerous Japanese companies and research groups to develop a cross-industry platform for artificial intelligence and data sharing across Japan. This initiative aims to enhance the infrastructure necessary for AI-powered data integration, positioning Japan to compete with leading nations in AI technology. The collaboration is significant as it seeks to address Japan's ambition to strengthen its presence in the global AI landscape, particularly against competitors like the US and China. By fostering a nationwide data-sharing ecosystem, the initiative could unlock new opportunities for innovation and efficiency in various sectors, thereby enhancing Japan's technological capabilities. Looking ahead, stakeholders will be keen to observe the progress of this initiative and its impact on Japan's AI landscape. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
NueroDance Introduces ND1000 and ND8 EEG Devices Alongside NeuroAI Data Platform
NueroDance has launched its ND1000 and ND8 series EEG devices, along with the NeuroAI group cross-modal data platform, during an event in Beijing. This initiative aims to establish a neural data infrastructure that extends the capabilities of AI beyond traditional text and image processing. The introduction of these EEG devices and the NeuroAI platform signifies a strategic move by NueroDance to position itself at the forefront of the evolving AI landscape. By focusing on cross-modal data, the company seeks to unlock new applications and insights from neural data, potentially transforming how AI systems interact with human cognitive processes. As the demand for advanced AI solutions grows, the development of a robust neural data infrastructure will be crucial. Observers should watch for how NueroDance's offerings will influence the AI sector and whether they can successfully integrate brain-computer hardware with multi-scene neural data applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Technology
1X Technologies CEO Bernt Børnich Foresees 'Hard Takeoff' for Robotics in Three Years
In a recent interview on the All-In Podcast, Bernt Børnich, Founder and CEO of 1X Technologies, forecasted a 'hard takeoff' for physical artificial intelligence within three years. He emphasized that the timeline for general-purpose robotic labor could be shorter than expected, driven by the capabilities of the $20,000 NEO platform. Børnich's vision extends beyond household applications, highlighting a broader commercial strategy that includes opening NEO as a developer platform. He believes that leveraging internet-scale video training and massive data ingestion will be crucial for achieving early autonomy in robotics, potentially leading to self-sufficient systems capable of building other robots and operating complex facilities. Looking ahead, Børnich's aggressive timeline suggests significant advancements in robotics are imminent. He noted that 1X is transitioning to an open ecosystem, allowing for a diverse range of applications and autonomy levels. This shift aims to enhance the capabilities of NEO, positioning it as a versatile tool for various industries, including automated retail.
1X Technologies US NEO Bernt Børnich
NTT Data Launches AI-Ready Support Services for Prossione Virtualization Platform
NTT Data Advanced Technology announced the launch of its support services for the Prossione Virtualization platform based on Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) on July 22, 2026. This service encompasses design, construction, migration, and maintenance, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and reduce virtualization costs through AIOps integration. The introduction of these services is significant as it addresses the growing trend of companies considering open-source software (OSS) for virtualization to mitigate costs associated with proprietary products. NTT Data's Prossione Virtualization aims to minimize dependency on specific vendors while optimizing existing infrastructure resources, thus overcoming the technical hurdles associated with transitioning from commercial products to OSS. Looking ahead, the modular nature of the services allows businesses to start small and expand functionalities as needed, adapting to changing operational requirements. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Lingbo Develops Unique Robot Intelligence Platform Using Ant Group's Payment Ecosystem Data
Lingbo, a robotics subsidiary of Ant Group, has announced the development of a novel robot intelligence platform that utilizes data from Ant's extensive payment ecosystem. This initiative aims to enhance embodied AI capabilities and was unveiled recently, marking a significant step in the integration of financial data into robotics technology. The significance of this development lies in its unconventional approach to AI, which leverages real-time transaction data to inform and improve robot decision-making processes. By tapping into Ant Group's vast data resources, Lingbo aims to create more adaptive and intelligent robotic systems that can better understand and respond to human interactions in various environments. Looking ahead, Lingbo's next steps in this project remain unclear, as no further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication. Industry observers will be keen to see how this integration of financial data into robotics will influence the market and the potential applications that may arise from this innovative approach.
Technology
Orbbec Unveils Robot-Free Data Collection Hardware Platform to Help Customers Capture Real-World Demonstrations for Physical AI at Scale
Leveraging its deep expertise in and broad product portfolio of robotics and AI vision, Orbbec is one of the few industry providers that combines advanced multi-sensor calibration and synchronization technologies, a full-stack vision product portfolio, and global-scale manufacturing and delivery capabilities.
AGIBOT Introduces Genie Sim 3.0, an Integrated Simulation, Data, and Benchmarking Platform for Embodied AI
AGIBOT has unveiled Genie Sim 3.0, an advanced platform aimed at improving embodied artificial intelligence in robotics. Launched recently, this open-source platform addresses significant challenges in robotics development by incorporating features such as environment generation, data scalability, and standardized evaluation methods. Genie Sim 3.0 enables the creation of 3D environments driven by large language models (LLMs) and includes a comprehensive framework for evaluating robot algorithms. The platform also integrates deeply with reinforcement learning, streamlining the experimentation and deployment processes for robotics. This upgrade is expected to facilitate faster advancements in the field, enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of robotic systems.
Embodied AI Robotics Simulation Reinforcement Learning Data Evaluation
Geekplus Japan Supports PUMA in Building a New Core Logistics Center — Unified Management of Store and E-commerce Inventory with Logistics Data Platform
Geekplus Japan has joined forces with PUMA and Senko Co., Ltd. to launch a state-of-the-art logistics center that merges business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) operations. This initiative, unveiled recently, leverages the open supply chain management solution 'skylaa' to streamline processes. The new center will feature the deployment of 42 automated mobile robots, aimed at boosting efficiency and enhancing inventory management. This strategic move is expected to significantly elevate PUMA's e-commerce capabilities and improve overall logistics performance, reflecting a growing trend towards automation in the retail sector.
Logistics Automation E-commerce Solutions Supply Chain Management Mobile Robotics Inventory Management
Tiburon Subsea, Ocean Robotics and Data Platform Poised for Growth
Tiburon Subsea Inc. has achieved a significant milestone by securing a patent for its groundbreaking JETTE propulsion system, designed for autonomous underwater vehicles. This development marks a pivotal advancement in underwater technology, enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of these vehicles. The patent, granted in October 2023, underscores the company's commitment to innovation in the subsea industry. By introducing this state-of-the-art propulsion system, Tiburon Subsea aims to improve operational performance and expand the potential applications of autonomous underwater vehicles in various sectors, including marine research and exploration.
tiburon subsea ocean robotics data platform patent
Fugro Partners with DTACT and Ubotica to Launch a Data Fusion and Intelligence Platform
Fugro has formed a strategic partnership with DTACT, a high-tech software firm, and Ubotica, a pioneer in AI-driven satellite intelligence, to create an innovative data fusion and intelligence platform. This collaboration aims to equip government organizations with essential information to enhance national security and protect vital underwater infrastructure. The initiative underscores the growing importance of advanced technology in safeguarding critical assets and responding to emerging security challenges.
fugro partnership dtact ubotica data fusion platform
XOCEAN Secures €115 Million Investment to Accelerate Growth of Its Ocean Data Services Platform
XOCEAN, a prominent provider of ocean data for the offshore energy and civil hydrography sectors, has successfully raised €115 million to bolster its growth and expand its global presence. The funding round was organized in collaboration with S2G Ventures and received contributions from a consortium of investors, including S2G, Climate Investment, Morgan Stanley's 1GT fund, and an affiliate of the Crown Family's CC Industries. This financial boost aims to enhance XOCEAN's capabilities and support its strategic initiatives in the evolving market.
xocean investment growth ocean data services platformRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
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