Top News

Industry Briefing

A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.

Google DeepMind Launches AlphaGenome Atlas Mapping 9 Billion DNA Variants

Google DeepMind Launches AlphaGenome Atlas Mapping 9 Billion DNA Variants

Google DeepMind has announced the public release of the AlphaGenome Atlas, an online repository that provides pre-computed predictions for all 9 billion possible single-letter changes to the human genome. This tool simplifies the process for researchers, allowing them to access predictions without needing to write code or run complex models themselves. The significance of the AlphaGenome Atlas lies in its potential to enhance our understanding of gene regulation and its implications for disease. As noted by genomicist Carl de Boer, comprehending how DNA variations affect gene activity is crucial for disease research. The Atlas aims to accelerate biological research by helping scientists prioritize experiments based on the model's predictions. Looking ahead, the Atlas could serve as a valuable resource for researchers in fundamental biology and treatment development. However, it is important to note that the predictions have limitations, particularly in the context of diseases associated with multiple genetic variants. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Genome Google-deepmind Genetics Ai-models
Google DeepMind Unveils WeatherNext 3, Its Most Advanced AI Weather Forecasting Model to Date

Google DeepMind Unveils WeatherNext 3, Its Most Advanced AI Weather Forecasting Model to Date

Google DeepMind and Google Research have launched WeatherNext 3, an AI weather forecasting model designed to enhance weather information across various Google platforms, including Search and Google Maps. This model is notable for its ability to directly integrate core forecasting variables into major Google products, marking a significant advancement in AI-driven weather predictions. The introduction of WeatherNext 3 is significant as it outperforms competitors like Microsoft and Nvidia on the Operational WeatherBench benchmark, achieving a 60% improvement in rain prediction over its predecessor. This model can generate hourly forecasts and utilizes real-time satellite data, making it a powerful tool for accurate weather forecasting. Looking ahead, WeatherNext 3's unique capability to target forecasts to specific weather stations could revolutionize applications such as airport weather predictions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

AI AI Funding & Investment AI Research & Advances AI Weather Forecasting Model Google DeepMind insights
Google DeepMind Launches Gemini Robotics 2: A Comprehensive Robot with Advanced Capabilities

Google DeepMind Launches Gemini Robotics 2: A Comprehensive Robot with Advanced Capabilities

On August 2, Google DeepMind introduced Gemini Robotics 2, the latest version of its visual-language-action model. This new model enhances full-body control, advanced dexterity, and multi-robot collaboration, marking a significant advancement from its predecessor, which only managed upper-body tasks. Gemini Robotics 2 allows the Apptronik Apollo 2 humanoid robot to autonomously execute complex tasks, such as placing a watering can into a designated bucket, requiring coordinated decision-making and balance. While there is room for improvement in movement speed, this development represents a crucial step towards handling more intricate real-world tasks. The model also introduces multi-robot collaboration, enabling different robots to communicate and work together on complex workflows. With the ASIMOV-Agentic benchmark, Gemini Robotics 2 excels in safety compliance and human proximity detection, ensuring safe operation. The Gemini Robotics On-Device 2 is designed for applications requiring offline functionality, adapting to new robotic forms with minimal data and time.

Humanoid Robots Robotics Technology AI Automation
Google DeepMind Introduces Gemini Robotics 2 for Enhanced Humanoid Control

Google DeepMind Introduces Gemini Robotics 2 for Enhanced Humanoid Control

Google DeepMind recently launched Gemini Robotics 2, an advanced version of its vision-language-action model. This iteration features intelligent whole-body control, enabling robots to perform complex tasks such as walking, crouching, and object manipulation. The model can adapt to new robotic bodies quickly, enhancing its versatility. The significance of Gemini Robotics 2 lies in its ability to expand physical AI capabilities, allowing robots to execute intricate movements and collaborate with other robots. This development is crucial for achieving the finesse required for real-world applications, such as household chores and workplace tasks. Looking ahead, the focus will be on further improving movement speed and dexterity. Gemini Robotics 2 represents a pivotal advancement in robotics, as it can control sophisticated end effectors like the SharpaWave hand, enabling delicate actions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Design / Development End Effectors / Grippers Humanoids News
Introducing Google DeepMind's Gemini Robotics 2: A Leap in Robot Adaptability

Introducing Google DeepMind's Gemini Robotics 2: A Leap in Robot Adaptability

Google DeepMind has unveiled Gemini Robotics 2, marking a significant advancement in robotics. This new intelligence layer enables robots to achieve whole-body control, enhanced dexterity, and collaborative capabilities among multiple robots. The introduction of Gemini Robotics 2 is crucial as it represents a step towards creating truly adaptable robots that can perform complex tasks in dynamic environments. This technology could revolutionize various applications, from industrial automation to personal assistance. Looking ahead, the development of Gemini Robotics 2 will be closely monitored as it progresses. The potential for multi-robot collaboration and advanced dexterity opens up new possibilities in robotics, making it a key area of interest for future innovations.

Humanoid-robots Video-friday Quadruped-robots Robot-videos Drones Home-robots
Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics 2 AI Model for Humanoid Robots

Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics 2 AI Model for Humanoid Robots

On July 30, 2026, Google DeepMind announced the latest AI model for humanoid robots, Gemini Robotics 2. This model advances from upper-body control to full-body control, enabling walking, bending, and advanced dexterity, as well as collaborative tasks among multiple robots. Gemini Robotics 2 translates visual and language inputs into motion control, supporting full-body and dual-arm robot operations. It features enhanced physical reasoning capabilities with Gemini Robotics ER 2, which manages human communication and multi-step task planning, and Gemini Robotics On-Device 2, which adapts quickly to new robots with minimal data. The model demonstrated its capabilities using Apptronik's humanoid robot Apollo 2, performing tasks such as walking to a table, lifting objects, and accurately storing them. With a 22-degree-of-freedom hand, it can execute delicate tasks like tying knots. The introduction of the ASIMOV-Agentic benchmark emphasizes safety, allowing the robot to detect human presence and stop safely, marking it as the safest model to date.

Google DeepMind Launches Gemini Robotics 2 for Enhanced Autonomy in Humanoid Robots

Google DeepMind Launches Gemini Robotics 2 for Enhanced Autonomy in Humanoid Robots

Google DeepMind has introduced Gemini Robotics 2, a suite of AI models aimed at enhancing the autonomy of humanoid and other robots through advanced whole-body control and dexterity. This system is currently showcased on Apptronik's Apollo 2 humanoid robot, which can execute full-body autonomous movements such as walking and manipulating objects while reasoning through complex tasks in real time. The significance of this development lies in its ability to enable robots to move beyond pre-programmed tasks, adapting to dynamic environments. Gemini Robotics 2 serves as an 'intelligence layer' for robots, facilitating coordination from 'feet to fingertips' and improving dexterity with tasks like tying trash bags or unscrewing light bulbs. This advancement builds on the collaboration between Google DeepMind and Apptronik, which recently launched Robot Park to gather data for training future AI models. Looking ahead, the introduction of multi-robot collaboration capabilities allows different robot types to work together on complex workflows. Gemini Robotics On-Device 2 is designed for industrial settings with limited cloud connectivity, enabling rapid adaptation to new hardware. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Artificial Intelligence Humanoids News Apptronik Apollo 2 embodied ai Gemini Robotics 2
Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics 2 for Full-Body Control of Humanoid Robots

Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics 2 for Full-Body Control of Humanoid Robots

Google DeepMind has announced the launch of Gemini Robotics 2, an advanced AI model capable of controlling humanoid robots from 'feet to fingertips.' This new version enhances the robot's ability to perform a variety of actions, including walking, crouching, and manipulating objects, significantly expanding its functional capabilities. The importance of this development lies in its potential to enable humanoid robots to undertake more complex, real-world tasks that require whole-body coordination. With improved dexterity, Gemini Robotics 2 allows robots to perform intricate tasks such as sealing bags and unscrewing lightbulbs, marking a significant advancement in robotic manipulation. Looking ahead, Google DeepMind is also enhancing its Gemini Robotics ER model, which aids robots in analyzing their environment and executing multi-step tasks. This update aims to improve collaboration among different types of robots, enhancing safety features and operational efficiency. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

AI Google News Robot Tech
Google DeepMind Launches Gemini AI to Enhance Robot Dexterity and Coordination

Google DeepMind Launches Gemini AI to Enhance Robot Dexterity and Coordination

Google DeepMind has introduced a new AI model named Gemini, designed to improve the dexterity of humanoid robots. This advancement enables robots to coordinate movements throughout their bodies, enhancing their ability to perform complex tasks. The introduction of Gemini AI is significant as it represents a step forward in enabling robots to reason, plan multi-step tasks, and adapt to human environments. This capability is crucial for the integration of robots into everyday settings, where they must interact seamlessly with humans and their surroundings. Looking ahead, the focus will be on how Gemini AI can be further developed and implemented in various robotic applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Actuate 26 Robotics Developer Conference Reveals Speaker Lineup with Industry Leaders

Actuate 26 Robotics Developer Conference Reveals Speaker Lineup with Industry Leaders

Foxglove has announced the speaker lineup for Actuate 26, its annual robotics developer conference, featuring leaders from Wayve, Aurora, Physical Intelligence, and more. The event will take place on August 18-19, 2026, at Fort Mason in San Francisco, showcasing technical talks, keynotes, and hands-on programming. This conference is significant as it aims to gather over 1,000 attendees from various sectors deploying robots, including autonomous vehicles, drones, and industrial automation. The participation of industry leaders highlights the growing interest and advancements in robotics and AI technologies. As the event approaches, attendees should look forward to insights from top experts in the field and opportunities for networking and collaboration. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Apptronik launches Robot Park to train Apollo humanoid robots with Google DeepMind

Apptronik launches Robot Park to train Apollo humanoid robots with Google DeepMind

AI-powered robotics company Apptronik has announced the opening of the newly expanded Robot Park, its flagship data collection and training facility for humanoid robots in Austin, Texas. The facility in Austin anchors a growing global network of Robot Parks at customer and partner sites around the world, and the company plans to open new Robot […]

Features Humanoids News apollo Apollo 2 apptronik
NVIDIA Accelerates Google DeepMind’s DiffusionGemma for Local AI

NVIDIA Accelerates Google DeepMind’s DiffusionGemma for Local AI

Google DeepMind has unveiled DiffusionGemma, an experimental open model designed for rapid text generation. This innovative model is optimized by NVIDIA to achieve enhanced performance on NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs and the NVIDIA RTX PRO platform. The release, which took place today, aims to push the boundaries of text generation technology, providing users with a tool that can produce content at unprecedented speeds. By leveraging advanced GPU capabilities, DiffusionGemma seeks to meet the growing demand for efficient and high-quality text generation solutions in various applications.

​Boston Dynamics and Google DeepMind Teach Spot to Reason​

​Boston Dynamics and Google DeepMind Teach Spot to Reason​

Boston Dynamics has announced that its quadruped robot, Spot, is now equipped with Google DeepMind’s Gemini Robotics-ER 1.6, a high-level embodied reasoning model designed to enhance the robot's usability and intelligence for complex tasks. This development, revealed today, marks a significant advancement in the commercial deployment of legged robots, particularly in industrial inspections, where Spot will autonomously identify hazardous debris, read gauges, and utilize vision-language-action models for better environmental understanding. The collaboration aims to improve how robots interpret and interact with their surroundings, addressing the challenges of ensuring that robotic actions align with human reasoning. Marco da Silva, vice president of Spot at Boston Dynamics, emphasized that the new capabilities will allow Spot to autonomously navigate real-world challenges more effectively. Despite the progress, experts acknowledge ongoing challenges in achieving seamless human-robot interaction. Carolina Parada from Google DeepMind noted that while the Gemini model enhances visual recognition, it currently lacks integration with other sensory data, such as touch, which is crucial for reliable object manipulation. As part of the deployment, customers using Spot for inspections will need to share operational data with Boston Dynamics to further refine the technology. The introduction of Gemini Robotics-ER 1.6 is seen as a step toward creating safer and more reliable robots capable of performing everyday tasks, with the potential to apply these advancements to other robotic platforms in the future.

Boston-dynamics Spot-robot Google-deepmind Inspection-robots Quadruped-robots
Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics-ER 1.6: A Leap in Spatial Reasoning and Industrial Utility

Google DeepMind Unveils Gemini Robotics-ER 1.6: A Leap in Spatial Reasoning and Industrial Utility

DeepMind has unveiled its latest and most sophisticated embodied reasoning model, which incorporates a cutting-edge "agentic vision" system designed specifically for industrial inspections. This new technology aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of multi-view success detection in various industrial applications. The launch, which took place recently, marks a significant advancement in artificial intelligence capabilities, reflecting DeepMind's commitment to enhancing operational processes across industries. By leveraging advanced machine learning techniques, the model is expected to streamline inspection workflows and reduce the likelihood of errors, ultimately driving productivity and safety in industrial environments.

Google Gemini Gemini Robotics-ER 1.6 google-deepmind Boston Dynamics
Google DeepMind and Agile Robotics Combine Robotics Platforms

Google DeepMind and Agile Robotics Combine Robotics Platforms

Google DeepMind has announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing its artificial intelligence models and advancing the field of industrial robotics. The collaboration will center on gathering data from real-world robotic operations, which is expected to provide valuable insights for improving the performance and capabilities of robotic systems. This initiative comes as part of DeepMind's ongoing efforts to leverage practical applications of AI technology in various sectors. The partnership is set to play a crucial role in driving innovation and efficiency within the robotics industry, ultimately contributing to the development of more sophisticated and effective robotic solutions.

Factory / Robotics
Agile Robots and Google DeepMind Partner to Bring Gemini to the Factory Floor

Agile Robots and Google DeepMind Partner to Bring Gemini to the Factory Floor

Agile Robots, based in Munich, has entered into a strategic research partnership with Google DeepMind to enhance industrial robotics. This collaboration seeks to integrate Gemini Robotics foundation models with advanced industrial hardware, addressing the prevalent issue of data bottlenecks in the field. By leveraging a scalable AI flywheel, the partnership aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of robotic systems in various industries. The initiative highlights the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics, as both companies work together to push the boundaries of technology and innovation.

DeepMind US Agile ONE Europe Google google-deepmind
Cartwheel Robotics Founder Scott LaValley Joins Google DeepMind

Cartwheel Robotics Founder Scott LaValley Joins Google DeepMind

After the closure of his startup, a former Disney Imagineer and veteran of Boston Dynamics has partnered with Aaron Saunders to promote advancements in Physical AI. This collaboration aims to leverage their combined expertise in robotics and artificial intelligence to develop innovative solutions that enhance physical interactions between humans and machines. The initiative reflects a growing interest in the integration of AI into everyday physical tasks, driven by the increasing demand for automation and intelligent systems. The partnership is set to explore new frontiers in technology, potentially transforming industries that rely on physical labor and interaction.

Cartwheel Robotics US Market Google google-deepmind
Google DeepMind Opens the Portal: Project Genie and the Quest for the "Infinite Training Loop"

Google DeepMind Opens the Portal: Project Genie and the Quest for the "Infinite Training Loop"

Google DeepMind has introduced Project Genie, an innovative experimental tool that utilizes the Genie 3 world model to generate interactive 3D environments from textual descriptions and images. Launched recently, this project aims to address the challenges of data limitations in robotics, which is a critical step towards achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). By moving beyond traditional gaming applications, Project Genie represents a significant advancement in DeepMind's overarching strategy to enhance the capabilities of AI in real-world scenarios. The initiative underscores the company's commitment to pioneering technologies that can bridge the gap between virtual and physical environments, ultimately paving the way for more sophisticated robotic systems.

DeepMind Google Gemini embodied-ai
Google DeepMind Robotics Director: We Need "One More Big Breakthrough" to Solve General Purpose Robots

Google DeepMind Robotics Director: We Need "One More Big Breakthrough" to Solve General Purpose Robots

DeepMind's robotics lab recently provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into its innovative work, highlighting the development of advanced "thinking" robots capable of long-term planning. This showcase aimed to illustrate the potential of these technologies in real-world applications. However, lab leadership acknowledged that achieving data efficiency is a significant challenge that must be overcome before these robots can be deployed effectively outside of controlled environments. The insights were shared as part of an ongoing effort to advance robotics and artificial intelligence, with the team emphasizing the importance of refining their systems to ensure practical usability in everyday scenarios.

DeepMind Apollo embodied-ai Apptronik
Google DeepMind Robotics Head Details 'Surprising' Cross-Embodiment AI, Calls Home 'The Hardest Environment'

Google DeepMind Robotics Head Details 'Surprising' Cross-Embodiment AI, Calls Home 'The Hardest Environment'

In a recent interview, Carolina Parada from Google DeepMind highlighted the innovative features of Gemini Robotics 1.5, particularly its unique 'agentic' two-part brain. Parada emphasized the robot's impressive capability to transfer skills across different robotic platforms, showcasing a significant advancement in robotics technology. She also expressed her belief that the home environment represents one of the final frontiers for the application of such technology, suggesting a future where robots could play an integral role in daily household tasks. This discussion sheds light on the ongoing developments in robotics and the potential for transformative impacts in personal living spaces.

vla World-Models AI Gemini google-deepmind Carolina-Parada
Google DeepMind Gives Robots a 'Thinking' Brain with Agentic Gemini 1.5 Models

Google DeepMind Gives Robots a 'Thinking' Brain with Agentic Gemini 1.5 Models

Google DeepMind has introduced Gemini Robotics 1.5, an advanced AI framework aimed at enhancing the capabilities of robots. This new system allows robots to evolve from merely following commands to becoming 'physical agents' capable of reasoning, planning, and acquiring skills across various hardware platforms, including Apptronik's Apollo humanoid robot. The announcement marks a significant step in the development of intelligent robotics, reflecting the company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. By enabling robots to learn and adapt, DeepMind seeks to revolutionize the way machines interact with their environments and perform complex tasks. The unveiling of this framework comes as part of a broader trend in the tech industry to create more autonomous and versatile robotic systems.

ai-agents vla Gemini Apptronik google-deepmind robotics
Google DeepMind Unveils On-Device Gemini Robotics, Pushing AI Closer to Autonomous Dexterity

Google DeepMind Unveils On-Device Gemini Robotics, Pushing AI Closer to Autonomous Dexterity

Google DeepMind has introduced Gemini Robotics On-Device, a cutting-edge vision-language-action model that operates directly on robotic hardware. This innovative technology is designed to enhance the performance of autonomous robots by minimizing latency and increasing robustness across diverse environments. By enabling advanced dexterous manipulation, Gemini Robotics On-Device aims to equip a new generation of robots with the ability to quickly adapt to various tasks. The launch marks a significant step forward in the development of more efficient and capable robotic systems, reflecting DeepMind's commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence in practical applications.

vla Apollo AI Humanoids Apptronik google-deepmind
RobotToday Initiative

Robotics needs a service framework.

RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.

inJoin the RobotToday community on LinkedIn

Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.