A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Mazda Motor Corporation is transitioning part of its wiring harness production back to Japan, collaborating with supplier Yazaki to automate this labor-intensive process. This move is aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing reliance on overseas manufacturing for a crucial vehicle component used i...
Researchers from Shinshu University and Chiba University have developed a new hydrogel electrode that significantly prolongs the functionality of insect antennae as odor sensors. The hydrogel maintains over 92% of the antenna's initial signal for seven hours, addressing the common issue of drying ou...
Vietnam has launched its first copyright infringement case targeting a website suspected of streaming anime and movies with Vietnamese subtitles. This action marks a significant step in the country's efforts to combat rampant content piracy, particularly in relation to Japanese media. The prosecuti...
In the fiscal year ending in March, listed companies in Japan divested 8.89 trillion yen ($56.2 billion) in cross-shareholdings, representing the second-highest amount recorded. This significant reduction reflects a 30% decrease over the past three years as firms aim to enhance asset performance. T...
Japan's nursing homes are testing humanoid robots designed to serve as caregivers, focusing on tasks like patrolling and providing companionship. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for elder care solutions in the country, where an aging population is creating a significant need for i...
Forum Energy Technologies (FET) has appointed Amariko Co., Ltd. as its local representative for the Dynacon product family in Japan. This partnership aims to enhance business development and provide technical support to Dynacon customers across the country. The collaboration is significant as FET s...
Aselsan, Turkey's largest state-linked defense company, is actively seeking collaborations with Japanese firms to develop underwater drones and air defense systems. This initiative comes as regional security threats escalate, prompting Aselsan to expand its presence in Asian markets. The alignment...
Japan is set to establish a new organization as early as the next fiscal year to invest in defense startups, focusing on advanced dual-use technologies, particularly in the drone sector. This initiative aims to enhance domestic production capabilities and promote exports of these technologies. The...
Japan is quickly acquiring drones, such as the Terra B1 interceptor supplied by Terra Drone to the Self-Defense Forces. However, there is a notable lack of interest in developing integration systems for these drones. This trend raises concerns about the country's ability to establish common standar...
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has initiated mass production of hospital robots designed to transport medical samples and medications, significantly saving labor hours. These robots have collectively saved 2,700 hours of work, addressing the labor shortages faced by healthcare institutions in Japan. The...
A recent study in Japan has highlighted significant disparities in opportunities for female surgeons to perform robot-assisted surgeries compared to their male counterparts. The findings indicate that female surgeons are often underrepresented in this advanced surgical field, which could impact thei...
Cute Robot Japanese Kitchen, located at 704 S. 2nd St. in Milwaukee's Walker's Point, has announced its permanent closure after approximately two years of operation. The owners, Marc and Janet Boettner, expressed their heartbreak over the decision but stated it was the best course of action for them...
Tokyo-based O-ID has successfully raised $1.2 million in pre-seed funding to advance its modular humanoid robot towards production, focusing initially on the automotive manufacturing and logistics sectors in Japan. The funding, with participation from Tawani Ventures, Hustle Fund, and Techstars, wi...
O-ID, a Tokyo-based startup, has successfully raised $1.2 million in pre-seed funding to advance its modular humanoid robots designed for industrial manufacturing and logistics. The funding round was led by TAWANI Ventures, with contributions from Hustle Fund, Techstars, and angel investors, includi...
On September 22, 2006, the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the Hinode solar observatory, also known as Solar-B. This satellite, named after the Japanese word for 'sunrise,' orbits approximately 400 miles (640 kilometers) above Earth in a sun-synchronous orbit, allowing it to co...
Japan is set to host a competition on the International Space Station where teams will control robots using artificial intelligence. This initiative, organized by the Space AI Robotics Association, aims to stimulate advancements in space exploration, AI, robotics, and simulations. The competition i...
The Japanese government is partnering with major machinery manufacturers to gather data for machine learning applications focused on physical AI, including autonomous robots. This initiative involves assigning unique IDs to individual factory equipment to facilitate data collection across various pr...
GMO AIR has launched Japan's first ambulance specifically designed for humanoid robots. This vehicle addresses the challenge of diagnosing and repairing robots that may malfunction in unpredictable locations, minimizing downtime and operational losses. It is equipped with a professional humanoid rob...
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has confirmed that its Global Hawk RQ-4B unmanned reconnaissance drone crashed after losing ground contact. The confirmation came after debris was found floating off the coast of Tottori prefecture, identified as belonging to the drone. This incident is sign...
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force reported the loss of communication with a Global Hawk unmanned reconnaissance drone operating off the coast of Tottori prefecture. The aircraft is now considered missing, prompting an active search operation in the area. This incident highlights the challenges faced...
Japan is set to develop compact quantum magnetic sensors for drones to enhance submarine detection capabilities. This initiative is part of Tokyo's fiscal 2027 defense budget request, with a target completion date of fiscal 2031, as reported by the Nikkei newspaper. The sensors aim to identify subt...
GMO Internet Group has introduced Japan's first 'robot ambulance' designed for humanoid robots. This vehicle will operate in Tokyo, providing on-site repairs and carrying engineers, equipment, and spare humanoids to assist in emergencies. The service aims to minimize downtime for humanoid robots us...
Japan is set to introduce defense subsidies aimed at enhancing domestic production capabilities for critical items such as drones and ammunition. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the country can meet its national security needs in times of crisis, particularly in light of...
Algomatic Dynamics has successfully raised $32.5 million from DMM.com in its inaugural funding round, aiming to launch an AI-driven multi-fingered robotic hand platform in Japan by the end of 2026. The startup, which began operations on September 9, focuses on developing technologies for motion-data...
Bulwark Dynamics has successfully raised $6.8 million in seed funding to advance the development of its Caravel autonomous landing craft. The company has entered into an agreement with Japan’s Onomichi Dockyard to facilitate the serial production of these vessels, which are designed to autonomously...
Japan's Defense Ministry has announced plans to develop advanced quantum magnetic sensors for drones aimed at detecting submarines. This initiative is part of the fiscal 2027 budget request, reflecting Japan's response to China's increasing naval activities in nearby waters. The development of thes...
Citigroup is set to provide instant overseas remittance services for Japanese companies utilizing blockchain-based tokenized deposits. This service, expected to launch within the year, will facilitate immediate foreign-currency transfers, even during nights and holidays, marking a significant advanc...
Onomichi Dockyard, a Japanese shipbuilder, has announced plans to start constructing uncrewed surface vessels. The company aims to supply these vessels to Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military, marking a significant step into dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military pu...
ABN Amro Clearing, a subsidiary of the Dutch bank ABN Amro, is set to enter the Tokyo Commodity Exchange's electricity futures market. The company anticipates meeting the necessary qualifications to broker trades and facilitate settlements as early as this month, making it the first major global pla...
Japan is exploring diverse applications for its humanoid robots, moving beyond traditional manufacturing roles. Domestic developers are focusing on leveraging the precision and durability of these robots, which have been enhanced through factory production lines, to compete with Chinese counterparts...
Japan is strategically converting its retired warships into diplomatic tools to enhance its influence across Southeast Asia. This initiative aims to strengthen maritime security partnerships and foster regional cooperation, reflecting Japan's commitment to stability in the area. The significance of...
Japanese airports are set to implement artificial intelligence and drones to identify issues with runways, lighting, and other infrastructure. This initiative, led by trading house Sumitomo, aims to double maintenance efficiency as the country prepares for an influx of foreign travelers with a reduc...
Japan's defense ministry has proposed a record budget of 8.89 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on advanced weaponry including Northrop Grumman's AGM-88G AARGM-ER anti-radar missile. This marks Japan's first interest in dedicated anti-radar capabilities, reflecting...
During a recent event, 80-year-old Hiroyuki Nakamura watched as two humanoid robots from China performed a mechanical dance and presented a gift to him. This moment highlights the evolving industrial relationship between China and Japan. By the first half of 2026, Chinese manufacturers are expected...
Chinese robot manufacturers are increasingly stepping into Japan's labor market, which is facing significant shortages. These companies are transitioning their focus from humanoid robots to applications in warehouses and restaurants, aiming to provide solutions that meet the demands of various secto...
Chinese robot manufacturers are increasingly stepping into Japan's labor market, which is currently facing significant shortages. These companies are transitioning their focus from humanoid robots to applications in warehouses and restaurants, aiming to provide solutions that meet the demands of var...
Japan is fast-tracking the production of 3D-printed interceptor drones to enhance its defense capabilities against potential supply chain attacks. This initiative underscores the importance of advanced manufacturing technologies in military applications, particularly in ensuring rapid availability o...
A Japanese startup, Muse, has introduced its retail helper robot in a grocery store in New York, aiming to meet the growing demand for labor-saving technology in the U.S. service sector. This initiative reflects the increasing reliance on automation to enhance operational efficiency in retail enviro...
The second World Robot Games in Beijing saw Japan's GMO Internet Group participate with its robot 'Hitomin', which utilizes the Yushin G1 hardware. The robot's control and gait algorithms were developed by GMO. In the semifinals, it fell during the 400-meter race and completed the 1500 meters in 7 m...
Fujitsu has entered into a memorandum of understanding with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to provide maintenance for surveillance drones in Japan. This collaboration comes as Japan enhances its maritime surveillance capabilities within its exclusive economic zone, reflecting a strategic shift...
The Kumamoto earthquake in late July 2026 showcased the capabilities of Japanese drones, particularly the lightweight IBIS2 from Liberaware, which supported rescue and recovery operations. This event not only raised the profile of Liberaware but also underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the J...
Terra Drone, a Japanese manufacturer, has received an order from the Self-Defense Forces for interceptor drones, with deliveries expected to commence in September. This order marks a significant step for Terra Drone in expanding its presence in the defense sector. The importance of this development...
Japanese trading house Itochu is set to enter the data center market, planning to invest several hundred billion yen by 2030 to establish around 10 facilities across Japan. These centers will be leased to major tech companies, including U.S. firms, before potentially being sold off. This move is si...
Japan's robotics strategies emphasize disaster response and addressing an aging workforce. With a significant portion of its population over 65, robotics is seen as essential for maintaining economic stability and enhancing labor sectors like healthcare. The country's proactive approach to robotics...
Major Japanese nonlife insurance companies, including Tokio Marine Holdings, MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, and Sompo Holdings, are actively courting foreign investors. This strategy aims to replace traditional cross-shareholding relationships with domestic firms as they seek to attract long-term s...
The Japanese government is set to revise its three main national security documents by the end of 2026. This decision is driven by significant changes in the battlefield landscape, particularly due to advancements in technologies such as drones and artificial intelligence. The revision of these doc...
Rakuten Group Inc. is partnering with defense AI startup Helsing to introduce military drones to Japan. This collaboration aims to enhance Japan's defense capabilities by leveraging advanced drone technology from the German startup. The partnership is significant as it reflects Japan's growing inte...
Rakuten Group is set to partner with German defense technology startup Helsing to introduce AI-powered attack drones for the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. This collaboration aims to enhance Japan's defense capabilities through advanced drone technology. The partnership is significant as it marks Ra...
Japanese startups are increasingly engaging in defense drone production, driven by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's initiative to reduce reliance on China and bolster local manufacturing capabilities. This shift highlights the strategic importance of drones in modern warfare, as evidenced by the P1-S...
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 in...
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