IRT Jules Verne is a French shared technology research centre focused on manufacturing competitiveness, conducting collaborative R&D in robotics, composites and process automation with partners including Airbus and Naval Group.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
LG Energy has been confirmed to supply batteries for Google's largest solar and energy storage project, marking a significant expansion in energy infrastructure related to the rising power demands of AI data centers. This project, known as the Steel River Energy Center, is a collaboration between Google and Cypress Creek Energy in Arkansas. The initial phase of the project will feature 1.6 gigawatts (GW) of solar power generation capacity and approximately 2 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery storage, with plans to expand to 2.5 GW of solar and 2.9 GWh of storage by 2029. LG Energy is expected to provide its JF2 DC Link system, utilizing lithium iron phosphate battery technology, with the order valued at several hundred billion Korean won. As the demand for renewable energy solutions grows, this partnership highlights the increasing importance of energy storage systems in supporting sustainable infrastructure. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Agility Robotics has outlined six recommendations aimed at establishing a robust policy framework for humanoid robots in the U.S. According to CEO Peggy Johnson, these recommendations are essential for enhancing the regulatory environment and ensuring the successful integration of humanoids into the workforce. She emphasizes the need for domestic production of key components, as current reliance on international sources, particularly from China, poses risks to the U.S. industry. The importance of these recommendations lies in their potential to strengthen the U.S. humanoid robot market, which is currently challenged by foreign competition. Johnson highlights that China dominates the manufacturing of critical components, such as permanent magnets used in motors, which are vital for humanoid robots. By fostering domestic capabilities, the U.S. can reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and bolster its technological leadership in the sector. Looking ahead, the U.S. must develop a coordinated national strategy that unites federal agencies and industry stakeholders to support the humanoid robotics sector. Johnson warns that without proactive measures, the U.S. risks losing its technological edge and compromising national security. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
China Defense / Security Humanoids Logistics Manufacturing Markets / IndustriesOpenAI has launched its first hardware product, the Codex Micro, a specialized keyboard designed for software developers. This compact device, developed in collaboration with Work Louder, features dedicated controls that facilitate the management of multiple coding tasks and AI agents, enhancing coding efficiency. The Codex Micro is significant as it represents OpenAI's commitment to AI-assisted software development, an area where the company has made substantial investments. With features like illuminated keys for task status and customizable controls, the keyboard aims to streamline the coding process, allowing developers to focus on their work without excessive reliance on software menus. Looking ahead, the Codex Micro is priced at $230 and will be available through Supply Co. While the exact number of units has not been disclosed, the device's design and functionality suggest a growing trend towards specialized hardware in the AI development space. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and RoboticsOn Tuesday, Microsoft released a significant security patch addressing a record number of vulnerabilities across its products, including the remastered Age of Empires II. This patch fixed a critical flaw that could have allowed hackers to take control of a victim's computer through a malicious game invite, as reported by security researchers. The importance of this patch lies in its potential to protect gamers from cyber threats. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2026-50663, could have enabled attackers to execute remote code on victims' machines, posing serious risks such as unauthorized access and data theft. Cybersecurity firm Rapid7 highlighted that while there is no evidence of this bug being exploited in the wild, the gaming community remains a prime target for malware distribution. Looking ahead, it will be crucial to monitor how Microsoft continues to leverage AI in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities across its platforms. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Security Age of Empires Age of Empires II cybersecurity In Brief MicrosoftCiti analysts have expressed optimism regarding Microsoft's Copilot AI assistant, projecting a robust fiscal 2026 fourth quarter and momentum into fiscal 2027. Their analysis indicates a notable increase in Copilot adoption and positive customer feedback, prompting them to raise their estimates for the product. This perspective contrasts sharply with the prevailing negative sentiment surrounding Copilot, as highlighted by Jim Cramer, who found Citi's stance surprising. The significance of Citi's endorsement lies in its potential to shift market perceptions of Microsoft's Copilot, which has faced criticism for its performance. The analysts believe that the improvements in Copilot, along with the strength of Azure, could lead to accelerated revenue and earnings growth through fiscal 2030. Despite the recent rise in Microsoft's stock, it remains down 18% year-to-date, indicating ongoing concerns about AI disruption in the software sector. Looking ahead, investors will be keen to see if Microsoft can demonstrate sustained traction with Copilot, especially as competition in AI infrastructure intensifies. The upcoming fiscal Q4 earnings report on July 29 will be crucial in assessing the impact of these developments on Microsoft's overall performance and market position. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Icarus Robotics has announced KULR Technology Group as the battery supplier for its autonomous free-flying robot, JOY, which is set to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) in early 2027. KULR will provide its KULR ONE Space (K1S) battery systems, engineered to NASA safety standards, ensuring reliable operation aboard the ISS. The partnership is significant as KULR’s battery technology has already been validated during the Artemis II lunar mission, which enhances the approval process with NASA. Icarus co-founder Ethan Barajas emphasized the importance of flight heritage in the space sector, stating that proven components expedite the approval process, crucial for a startup like Icarus. Looking ahead, JOY, powered by embodied AI, aims to assist astronauts with routine tasks and infrastructure maintenance, allowing them to concentrate on more critical research objectives. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Aerospace Batteries / Power Supplies Markets / Industries News Technologies IcarusResearchers from Korea have created an AI framework that allows a quadruped robot to autonomously adapt its motor skills while navigating challenging environments. This system enables real-time gait adjustments for traversing forests, climbing stairs, and overcoming obstacles using only onboard sensors and computing capabilities. The significance of this development lies in its potential applications for autonomous search-and-rescue and exploration missions. The Action Pretrained Transformer-based Reinforcement Learning (APT-RL) framework enhances agility by combining pretrained locomotion skills with adaptive decision-making, demonstrating the robot's ability to handle diverse obstacles effectively. Future observations will focus on the framework's deployment in real-world scenarios, as it has already shown impressive performance on KAIST’s quadruped robot, HOUND. The robot's ability to switch between different gaits based on terrain and speed, achieving speeds of up to 6 meters per second, highlights the effectiveness of the APT-RL approach in complex environments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and RoboticsThe U.S. Navy has awarded a $10 million contract to Ursa Major to enhance the Mk 104 solid rocket motor through critical design review and static-fire testing. This initiative is part of the Navy's ongoing efforts to expand U.S. missile propulsion manufacturing capabilities. This contract builds on Ursa Major's previous collaboration with the Navy, which included a $25 million investment in solid rocket motor prototyping. The Mk 104 is integral to the Navy's Standard Missile family, powering variants like the SM-2, SM-3, and SM-6, essential for both offensive and defensive operations. Looking ahead, Ursa Major's innovative Lynx manufacturing approach aims to produce solid rocket motors efficiently, addressing production bottlenecks. The Navy's investment signifies a commitment to diversifying the supply chain for solid rocket motors, enhancing production capacity as demand for advanced missile systems continues to rise. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
MilitaryAn innovative autonomous surface vessel, the Ranger, has successfully completed its Sea Acceptance Test (SAT) in Germany, demonstrating its ability to be launched from a submarine's torpedo tube. Developed by Gabler and Flanq, the Ranger is designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions with minimal human intervention. The successful completion of the SAT marks a significant milestone for the program, confirming the vessel's seaworthiness and the integration of its core technologies. The Ranger, measuring approximately 15 feet long, features a folding keel and collapsible sensor mast, allowing it to fit within a standard 21-inch torpedo tube. Looking ahead, Gabler will manage the commercialization and integration of the Ranger with submarines, while Flanq will provide advanced maritime technologies and mission software. The companies are also developing a one-way attack variant called Strike, expanding the platform's capabilities for future naval operations.
MilitaryROBOTS has announced the completion of a seed funding round through third-party allocation from Incubate Fund and NTT Docomo. The startup focuses on developing an integrated control platform for robots that become smarter through on-site operations. The funding will accelerate research and development of this platform and physical AI, particularly for implementation in the security sector. The significance of this development lies in addressing the severe labor shortages in the security industry, where high turnover rates and an aging workforce pose challenges. By integrating various robots and sensors into a cohesive system, ROBOTS aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the burden on security personnel. This approach allows for a flexible response to diverse on-site tasks, which is crucial given the unique demands of different environments. Looking ahead, ROBOTS plans to leverage insights gained from security applications to expand into other sectors such as equipment inspection and construction. CEO Koki Kawauchi emphasized the importance of robotics in addressing real-world challenges, aiming for a future where diverse robots work alongside humans seamlessly.
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