Modular
"Inference reimagined, from Kernel to Cloud. One unified stack."
Modular built the Mojo language and MAX AI-inference platform for GPUs/CPUs before Qualcomm completed its acquisition of the firm in July 2026.
Modular is an AI infrastructure software company founded by Chris Lattner and Tim Davis, who met while both working at Google. Lattner is known in the software industry as the creator of the LLVM compiler infrastructure and the Swift programming language, developed during his earlier career at Apple; Davis previously worked on product at Google Brain. The two founded Modular to address fragmentation in the AI infrastructure stack: the proliferation of incompatible frameworks, compilers, and hardware-specific toolchains that make it costly and slow to move AI workloads from research into production across different chips and cloud environments. The company's two flagship technical products are Mojo, a systems-level programming language designed to combine Python-like syntax and usability with the performance characteristics of lower-level languages for GPU and CPU programming, and MAX, a GenAI-native modeling and serving platform that compiles and runs AI models across heterogeneous hardware from a single unified stack. Modular describes MAX as delivering roughly 2x inference performance improvements and up to 50% cost savings compared with fragmented, hardware-specific deployment pipelines, attributed to improved GPU utilization and faster model compilation. The company offers its inference platform through shared endpoints, dedicated endpoints, and fully custom model deployments, hosted either on Modular's managed cloud or within a customer's own virtual private cloud. Modular has built an open-source community around Mojo and MAX, publishing code on GitHub under modular/modular and operating a public Discord community for developers. The company describes its offices as centered in Silicon Valley with additional presences in San Francisco, Los Altos, Boston, and Edinburgh, the last reflecting UK-based compiler and systems engineering talent. In June 2026, Qualcomm announced its intent to acquire Modular, and the transaction closed on July 29, 2026. Qualcomm stated the acquisition would strengthen its software foundation for generative and agentic AI across data-center and edge environments, extending Modular's inference stack from cloud GPUs to Qualcomm's data-center and edge silicon. Following the close, Lattner became EVP of AI Software and Platforms at Qualcomm, and Davis became SVP and General Manager of Modular within Qualcomm. Prior to the acquisition, Modular operated as an independent venture-backed startup providing inference infrastructure to enterprise customers running large generative and agentic AI models. Specific founding year, headquarters street address, and employee count were not confirmed from the sources reviewed and are left blank rather than estimated.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
MAX
MAX is Modular's generative-AI inference and deployment platform, letting developers serve PyTorch and ONNX models across CPUs and GPUs from multiple hardware vendors.
Company Facts
Founded
2022
Primary Role
Software/Algorithm
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
Subsidiary / Acquired
Funding Total
-
Tsinghua University Team Unveils Soccer-Playing Humanoid Robot in Science Robotics
On August 19, a team led by Professor Zhao Mingguo from Tsinghua University's Department of Automation published a paper in Science Robotics titled "Learning Vision-Driven Reactive Soccer Skills for Humanoid Robots." The research introduces a unified perception-motion reinforcement learning framework that enables a humanoid robot, known as Booster, to autonomously locate and kick a soccer ball without relying on external positioning or motion capture systems. This development is significant as it addresses the challenges of dynamic environments where visual perception is often unreliable. Traditional robotic soccer systems typically follow a modular pipeline, which can amplify errors due to perception noise and delays. The new framework allows the robot to make accurate movements even under imperfect visual conditions, marking a notable advancement in the field of robotics. Looking ahead, the implications of this research could extend to various applications in robotics, particularly in environments where visual feedback is compromised. The paper's publication in a prestigious journal underscores its importance, and the team’s innovative approach may pave the way for future developments in humanoid robotics and autonomous systems. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Humanoid Robots Reinforcement Learning Robotics Research AI Autonomous Systems
HoverAir's Versa Drone Faces US Shipping Ban Just Days After Launch
HoverAir's Versa, a modular drone that transforms from a camera with snap-on wings, has halted US orders shortly after its Indiegogo launch. The company announced that it can only ship the camera component due to unresolved logistics with the Flight Kit, which may indicate a federal ban. The FCC's database no longer lists the HoverAir Versa, suggesting its authorization has been revoked. This situation highlights the challenges faced by HoverAir in navigating regulatory compliance. Although the Versa received initial approval from the FCC on August 9 for the camera, it appears that the drone's components fall under stricter regulations. The FCC's definition of drones includes cameras as critical components, complicating HoverAir's ability to market and sell its product in the US. Looking ahead, it remains uncertain how HoverAir will address the shipping ban and whether it will expedite refunds for backers. The company has a history of delays, as seen with the HoverAir Aqua's certification issues last December. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Drones News Tech
General Atomics Introduces Wildfire Drone with 11,500-Mile Range and Anti-Ship Missile Capability
General Atomics has announced the Wildfire, a new long-range unmanned aircraft concept designed to meet modern drone warfare demands and potentially succeed the MQ-9 Reaper. This Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) aims to fulfill the Pentagon's requirements for medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft capable of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. The Wildfire is being developed with a 10,000-nautical-mile ferry range and the capacity to carry up to four AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM). It is also designed to coordinate swarms of up to 100 aircraft under semi-autonomous control, addressing the Pentagon's evolving airpower strategy that anticipates losses in high-end conflicts. The Pentagon's Massed Modular Aircraft (MMA) program seeks cost-effective, modular unmanned aircraft capable of operating in significant numbers. General Atomics aims to meet these requirements, with prototype flight testing expected to begin within 21 months of contract award, targeting initial operational capability by fiscal year 2031.
Military
Global Nanorobotics Market Expected to Reach $31.44 Billion by 2034
The global nanorobotics market is projected to grow to $31.44 billion by 2034, driven by advancements in targeted drug delivery and regenerative medicine, as reported by Polaris Market Research. The market is estimated at around $9 billion in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 14.9 percent anticipated through 2034. Drug delivery remains the largest application, with significant research focused on nanoscale systems that target specific cells while minimizing effects on healthy tissue. Recent research highlights the potential of nanorobotics, including a DNA-based nanorobot from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute that reduced tumor growth by 70 percent in preclinical models. Additionally, autonomous therapeutic nanorobots from the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia demonstrated up to 90 percent reduction in bladder tumors, while a modular nanorobot from the University of Basel decreased cancer cell viability to 16 percent. The fastest-growing category is cell-repair nanorobots, with regenerative medicine applications expected to drive demand further. North America currently holds about 41 percent of the market, bolstered by research funding and healthcare infrastructure, while Asia Pacific is set for the fastest growth at nearly 19 percent annually. This growth is attributed to increased investments in biotechnology and precision medicine across China, Japan, South Korea, and India. Collaborative research initiatives in Europe, like the EU-backed i-NANOSWARMS project, are also contributing to the sector's expansion.
News Research biotechnology cancer treatment cell repair drug delivery
WRC 2026: Fao Showcases Innovations in Embodied Intelligence and Robotics
On August 19, the 2026 World Robotics Conference (WRC) took place in Beijing, showcasing advancements in robotics and embodied intelligence. Fao presented its ART series industrial-grade humanoid force control arms and various applications, highlighting the development path from technical exploration to industrial application. This event is significant as it serves as a key platform for observing industry trends, with Fao's vision of enabling large-scale industrial embodied intelligence. The company aims to provide modular robotic solutions for intelligent manufacturing, demonstrating the capabilities of its wheeled humanoid robots in dynamic environments. Looking ahead, Fao is exploring the construction of a Data Factory system to meet the data needs of embodied intelligence development. The company also showcased its ART series arms, including the ART7 and ART14, which feature impedance control for enhanced safety and adaptability in operations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Industrial Robotics Embodied Intelligence AI Integration Smart Manufacturing
General Atomics Introduces Wildfire Drone as Successor to MQ-9 Reaper
General Atomics has announced the Wildfire Unmanned Aerial System, a next-generation medium-altitude, long-endurance drone. This development aligns with the Pentagon's need for a modular and cost-effective successor to the MQ-9 Reaper, which has faced significant operational losses in recent conflicts. The Wildfire aims to enhance capabilities in high-risk environments, addressing concerns about the dwindling MQ-9 fleet and its performance against peer threats like China. The introduction of the Wildfire is significant as it represents a shift in military strategy towards more adaptable and affordable unmanned systems. The Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit has initiated the Massed Modular Aircraft program to explore options for replacing the Reaper, emphasizing the need for a flexible, risk-tolerant aerial solution. This change reflects the evolving dynamics of modern warfare, where traditional high-value aircraft may no longer be sustainable in high-end conflicts. Looking ahead, the focus will be on the development and deployment of the Wildfire UAS and its integration into military operations. General Atomics is committed to advancing this technology, with ambitions for extensive production to meet the demands of modern warfare. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Air Air Forces Drones News & Features U.S. Air Force Unmanned
Pelican-VL 2.0 and TianGong Omni Unveiled at WRC Forum in Beijing
On August 20, the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center hosted a significant event focused on embodied intelligence at the WRC Forum in Beijing. The forum featured key industry leaders and scholars discussing the scaling of embodied intelligence applications, culminating in the launch of the Pelican-VL 2.0 model and the TianGong Omni platform. This launch is crucial as it marks a pivotal shift in embodied intelligence from modular approaches to an integrated end-to-end model, enhancing capabilities in real-world applications. The Pelican-VL 2.0 model has shown significant advancements in agentic abilities, particularly in long-range tasks and tool usage, outperforming competitors in authoritative evaluations. Looking ahead, the Pelican-VL 2.0 is now available for commercial use, showcasing its collaborative capabilities. The TianGong Omni platform, designed for humanoid native tasks, offers an open base for developers, facilitating rapid adaptation and scaling of embodied intelligence applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Embodied Intelligence Robotics AI Models Humanoid Robots
Waymo Launches Next-Gen Ojai Robotaxi for Riders in Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco
Waymo has officially opened its next-generation robotaxi, the Ojai, to all riders in Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco. This marks a significant step for the Alphabet company as it aims to expand its fleet with vehicles that are more cost-effective to build, operate, and maintain. Currently, Waymo has approximately 300 Ojai robotaxis in its commercial fleet, with plans to introduce the vehicle in Denver, Las Vegas, and San Diego later this year. The introduction of the Ojai is crucial for Waymo's long-term strategy to achieve mass scale and profitability. The Ojai features Waymo's sixth-generation self-driving system, which is designed to be modular and compatible with various vehicle types. Additionally, it includes a redesigned user interface and Google’s Gemini AI, enhancing the rider experience. The Ojai is based on a minivan produced by Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely Holding Group, and aims to be both attractive and durable for frequent use. Looking ahead, Waymo is projected to import 5,000 Ojai vehicles to the United States by the end of 2026, significantly increasing its fleet size compared to the existing Jaguar I-Pace. However, the company faces challenges due to U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles, which impact overall costs. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Transportation robotaxis Waymo
HOVERAir Unveils VERSA, a Versatile 2-in-1 Gimbal and Drone Camera
HOVERAir has launched the VERSA, a 2-in-1 device that functions as both a handheld gimbal camera and a self-flying drone. This innovative product from ZeroZero Robotics is designed for creators seeking both stability and aerial perspectives, featuring lightweight snap-on propeller accessories that allow for seamless transitions between modes. The VERSA captures high-quality 4K video at 60 frames per second and includes advanced features such as AI tracking and multiple creative shooting modes. With a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, it offers a dynamic range of up to 17.5 stops and supports professional workflows with 10-bit HDR recording. The device weighs 230 grams and boasts a maximum flight time of 14 minutes, making it a compact and versatile tool for content creators. Looking ahead, the VERSA's unique capabilities, including its modular design and various control options, position it as a significant player in the evolving drone market. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Drone News Drone News Feeds News 1/1.3-inch CMOS 10-bit HDR drone 12 MP photos
Rodriguez Unveils Movotrak Cobot Transfer Unit to Enhance Automation Flexibility
Rodriguez has launched the Movotrak Cobot Transfer Unit (CTU), a collaborative linear transfer system that enables a cobot to operate across multiple workstations with an impressive range of up to 10 metres. This innovative system is designed to enhance robot utilization by allowing a single cobot to perform tasks at various positions along a production line, rather than being confined to one location. The introduction of the Movotrak CTU is significant for manufacturers as it reduces the need for repositioning or reconfiguring automation equipment when production demands shift. A standout feature of this system is its integrated collision detection, which is claimed to be the only one of its kind on the market. This capability allows the system to detect collisions while in motion, enhancing safety in environments where humans and automated systems work closely together. Looking ahead, the Movotrak CTU's modular design and compatibility with various standard cobots present opportunities for manufacturers to optimize their production setups. The system's ability to be installed in multiple orientations and its Freedrive function for manual guidance further simplify the integration process. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Industrial robots News Robotics cobots collaborative robots industrial automation
World Robot Conference 2026 Opens in Beijing Aug. 19–23, Days After Unitree's $9B IPO
WRC 2026 opens August 19 in Beijing with 300+ exhibitors, a first-ever SOE pavilion and a new Procurement Day, days after Unitree priced China's first mainland-listed humanoid robot IPO at a $9.04 billion valuation.
WAIC Review 3/4: What Scientists and Skeptics Really Think About Embodied AI: The Sober Voices at WAIC 2026
UCL and HKUST researchers, plus robotics CEOs, challenged embodied AI hype at WAIC 2026, citing generalization limits and no third-party evaluation standard.
Planning Algorithms Steven M. LaValle — RSF Specialist Shelf · Book S4 of 6
The reference that treats planning as a subject in its own right: configuration space, sampling-based methods, RRT. Free online, dual difficulty 4/5-2/5.
Physical AI Landscape: From Digital Intelligence to the Embodied Physical World
A comprehensive industry analysis of Physical AI — covering Embodied AI, Field AI, Factory AI, VLM, World Model, VLA, and the VLA vs WAM architecture debate. Includes 20+ companies, 28 references, and the RobotToday Physical AI Landscape diagram. July 2026.
Humanoid Robot Wire Harnesses Emerge as a Critical System Technology
A RobotToday engineering deep dive into humanoid robot wire harnesses: 3D dynamic fatigue, 10-100 Gbps EMI shielding, FPC cost reduction, and global standards.
Pittsburgh Regional Alliance Convenes Nine CMU-Rooted Robotics Firms at Automate 2026
At Automate 2026, the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance convened nine robotics firms — most spun out of Carnegie Mellon — spanning materials, perception and AMRs.
ROBOTTODAY Weekly June 23 – 27, 2026
This week in robotics: Agility Robotics $2.5B SPAC deal for first humanoid IPO, BMW Figure 03 logistics deployment, Morgan Stanley doubles China humanoid forecast, ON Semiconductor acquires Synaptics for $7B, Sony halts aibo in Japan. June 23–27, 2026.
Vention Announces Two Major Robotics Collaborations at Automate 2026 | FANUC & Teradyne Robotics
Vention reveals AI-powered platform partnerships with FANUC America and Teradyne Robotics at Automate 2026, enabling software-defined automation across collaborative and industrial robot deployments.
Digital Twin, Physical AI & Robot OEM Readiness 2026: Platforms, VLA Models, LLM Programming
A balanced analysis of the robot intelligence revolution: multi-vendor digital twin platforms (NVIDIA, Siemens, Dassault, ABB, Rockwell, Hexagon), Physical AI VLA models (RT-2, pi0, GR00T N1, AgiBot), current Physical AI limitations, LLM robot programming, and the OEM readiness matrix across US, European, and Chinese manufacturers.
Robot Programming Languages 2026: From G-Code & FANUC KAREL to ROS2 — Complete History & Industrial Guide
A comprehensive guide to industrial robot programming language evolution: G-code and NC origins, FANUC KAREL/TP, ABB RAPID, KUKA KRL, Yaskawa INFORM, the ROS open-source revolution, ROS2 architecture, ROS-Industrial consortium, OPC-UA, TSN, and real-time Linux — how six decades of software history define today's factory floor.
