Physical AI, embodied systems, and robots.
30 stories
Robot startup XDOF is closing in on $1.2B valuation, raising a Series B round led by 8VC. The company collects real-world teleoperation data for training general-purpose robots.
XDOF, a startup focused on collecting real-world teleoperation data for training general-purpose robots, is reportedly in late-stage talks for a Series B funding round at a $1.2 billion valuation, just three months after emerging from stealth.
Krafton, a South Korean gaming company, plans to invest $250M in India over the next three to four years, focusing on AI, robotics, and deep tech.
Tesla’s Cybercab lacks traditional safety features and is under investigation by NHTSA.
China's Zhiyuan Research Institute has unveiled Xiaoyuan, a robot guide dog with wheels and legs designed to assist visually impaired individuals. It offers precise navigation, obstacle avoidance, and remote assistance, addressing a shortage of traditional guide dogs.
Tesla has launched its Cybercab robotaxi service, initially available in Austin, Texas, via its app. Customers can hail autonomous rides, though Cybercab selection is not yet an option.
China's robotics boom is driven by two approaches: packing capability into versatile bodies and transferring intelligence across different robots. While impressive, the physical world's complexity poses significant challenges for humanoid robots.
DJI’s Romo 2 robovac is quieter, more powerful, and better at climbing obstacles. It also features a new local data mode to improve privacy.
A new system from Tsubaki Kabelschlepp helps prevent costly downtime in industrial robots by managing stress on cables and hoses.
Excelland Robotics is launching an IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange to raise capital for R&D, expansion, and acquisitions, aiming to capitalize on the growing commercial service robot market.
First UK robotaxi ride highlights safety measures and human backup
Uber launches robotaxi service in London with Wayve's autonomous tech, featuring human safety drivers. Wayve uses Ford Mustang Mach-Es and Nissan Leafs.
NASA's Canadarm named 300th IEEE Milestone, marking 30 years of service to space shuttles and ISS.
Physical AI startup Lyte secures $165M Series C funding at $1.6B valuation, led by Maverick Silicon.
Range Rover’s new EV arrives with a familiar design, but under the hood it’s powered by electric motors and has impressive specs.
Tesla’s Cybercab robotaxi launches in Austin, Texas, using a camera-only approach. Elon Musk’s bet on a simplified autonomous system faces scrutiny.
The 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing showcased hundreds of humanoid robots performing diverse tasks, signaling China's push to move these machines from demonstrations to practical, large-scale applications.
IEEE President’s Note: Technology for Social Good - IEEE Spectrum
Hugging Face's French subsidiary Pollen Robotics has launched the Microduck robot, which has sold over 10,000 units quickly, delaying delivery times. The device is powered by a chip from Shanghai-listed Rockchip, highlighting global tech supply chain interdependence.
China has released its first mandatory national safety standard, GB 44721-2026, for L3 and L4 autonomous-driving systems, covering passenger and freight vehicles. It takes effect on July 1, 2027, replacing a previous recommended standard.
A JD Power survey reveals car owners prefer unobtrusive technology that simplifies driving, not complex features. Smart ignition and HVAC systems scored highest, while passenger screens and advanced hands-free driving systems received lower satisfaction ratings.
Qianxing Intelligence is deploying embodied AI robots in entertainment venues, allowing people to control humanoid fighting mechs in real-time battles, aiming to make embodied intelligence tangible.
The U.S. has tightened restrictions and imposed tariffs on foreign-made advanced robotic systems and drones, citing national security concerns, primarily targeting Chinese manufacturers.
Caterpillar is leveraging its decades of experience in automating mining operations to tackle the challenges of deploying artificial intelligence in industrial settings and across its enterprise.
Japan manufacturers to form consortium to develop AI for factory robots
Japan manufacturers to form consortium for AI in factory robots
The HICOOL 2026 Global Entrepreneur Summit in Beijing showcased 14 AI companies from Haidian District, presenting a comprehensive AI ecosystem from foundational models to end products.
Chinese automakers are investing in humanoid robots, mirroring Tesla's strategy. Xpeng's robotics unit raised $900 million, and Chery Automobile is preparing for an IPO. Other automakers like BYD and Changan are also developing humanoid robots.
Meta is testing robots to perform maintenance tasks in its data centers, such as swapping cables and restarting servers, as it expands its AI infrastructure.
Security researcher Olivier Laflamme disclosed two root RCE chains affecting Unitree G1 EDU robots, including a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) path that can reach root on the robot's Locomotion PC.
Meta is testing robots from vendors like Kinova and ABB to automate tasks such as plugging cables and resetting servers in its data centers, aiming to reduce labor costs amidst soaring AI infrastructure spending.