Robotics & Automation News

Where Innovation Meets Imagination

Humanoids

Chinese auto giant Chery integrates 220 self-made humanoid robots into its operations

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Chery, a leading Chinese automobile manufacturer, is making headlines with its recent delivery of 220 AiMOGA humanoid robots.

Developed in collaboration with the team at AiMOGA – which is believed to be a business unit within Chery – these robots integrate Chery’s advanced technologies, including assisted driving, intelligent cockpit systems, the CheryGPT large language model, and smart sensors.

The robots are designed to assist in car sales and provide support services at Chery dealerships. [Read more…] about Chinese auto giant Chery integrates 220 self-made humanoid robots into its operations

ASTM tests exoskeletons for proposed ‘firefighter readiness’ standard

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The exoskeletons and exosuits committee (F48) of industry standards association ASTM has proposed a new test method for evaluating exoskeleton device performance on first responder tasks.

According to ASTM member Ben Beiter, there are currently 16 different test methods to evaluate the performance of exoskeletons for industrial applications.

The specific applications of the technology for first responders, though, are unique. This new test method aims specifically at testing exoskeletons for their ability to help with firefighting tasks. [Read more…] about ASTM tests exoskeletons for proposed ‘firefighter readiness’ standard

Spotlight on humanoids: A deep dive into Figure AI

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Founded in 2022, Figure AI, a US-based company, has quickly become a notable player in AI-powered humanoid robots.

In this article, we explore Figure AI’s technology, potential impact, and future within the robotics market. We will examine the company’s background, technology, applications, and prospects, considering the competitive landscape and challenges in installing humanoid robots at scale.

The intense early interest in Figure AI suggests a groundbreaking approach in the robotics sector, potentially addressing critical market needs with unique technological advantages. [Read more…] about Spotlight on humanoids: A deep dive into Figure AI

Boston Dynamics interview: ‘Ghastly’ grace, the uncanny valley, and the dawn of humanoid utility

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The first time I saw a Boston Dynamics robot move, I genuinely thought there was a person inside the machine. Not literally, of course, but something about the fluidity of motion – the precision, the uncanny timing – seemed less robotic and more… alive, more human or at least more animalistic.

For years, I’d watched robots lumber around trade shows or on TV, carefully placing one foot in front of the other before promptly tipping over.

So, when Boston Dynamics released videos of Atlas backflipping and dancing with unsettling realism, I wasn’t the only one who found it both mesmerizing and a little eerie. One observer even called it “ghastly” – and not as an insult, but as a mark of awe. [Read more…] about Boston Dynamics interview: ‘Ghastly’ grace, the uncanny valley, and the dawn of humanoid utility

Humanoid robots could unlock $3 trillion US market, says Morgan Stanley

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A new, timely and detailed report outlines the rise of ‘embodied AI’ and maps the companies best positioned to lead the humanoid robotics revolution.

Humanoid robots could drive a $3 trillion total addressable market (TAM) in the United States alone, according to a new report by Morgan Stanley.

The global financial services company describes the emerging field as “embodied AI” – a combination of generative artificial intelligence and robotics hardware that may soon transform how labor is delivered across industries. [Read more…] about Humanoid robots could unlock $3 trillion US market, says Morgan Stanley

Humans race against humanoid robots in bizarre half-marathon

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In a groundbreaking fusion of technology and athletics, 21 humanoid robots participated alongside thousands of human runners in the Yizhuang Half-Marathon in Beijing. (See video below.)

This event marked the first time humanoid robots have competed in a 21-kilometer race with humans, highlighting China’s ambitions in artificial intelligence and robotics.​

The standout performer among the robots was Tiangong Ultra, developed by the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics. Tiangong Ultra completed the race in 2 hours and 40 minutes, significantly behind the men’s human winner, who finished in 1 hour and 2 minutes. [Read more…] about Humans race against humanoid robots in bizarre half-marathon

The coming price war in humanoid robotics: From industrial workers to household helpers. How much for each?

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As the race to commercialize humanoid robots intensifies, companies across the globe are staking their claim in a market that spans industrial powerhouses to everyday household helpers.

Once confined to research labs and sci-fi films, humanoid robots are now inching closer to mainstream reality – and price is emerging as one of the key battlegrounds.

A new generation of robots is being launched at dramatically different price points, reflecting divergent visions for how these machines will integrate into workspaces, homes, and public environments. [Read more…] about The coming price war in humanoid robotics: From industrial workers to household helpers. How much for each?

XPeng to mass produce its humanoid robot next year

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XPeng, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is set to begin mass production of its humanoid robot, Iron, in 2026, marking a significant expansion into robotics.

Iron, unveiled at XPeng’s AI Day in November 2024, is designed for tasks in manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Standing at 1.73 meters and weighing 70 kilograms, Iron features 60 articulating joints and 200 degrees of freedom, enabling fluid, human-like movements.

It is powered by XPeng’s proprietary Turing AI chip, a 40-core processor capable of handling 30 billion AI parameters, allowing it to perform complex tasks such as assembling EV components and navigating factory floors. ​ [Read more…] about XPeng to mass produce its humanoid robot next year

Humanoid robot executes groundbreaking side flip in stunning video

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Unitree Robotics has released footage of what appears to be the first-ever standing side flip performed by a humanoid robot – a significant leap in dynamic motion and balance control that may have implications for real-world deployments. (See video below.)

The robot, called G1, executes the move without ramps, tethers, or support systems – launching from a standing position and completing a full lateral flip before landing cleanly on two feet. The motion is fast, fluid, and surprisingly natural.

The move sets a new benchmark in robotic agility. Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot has previously performed impressive backflips and parkour sequences, but no other humanoid is known to have pulled off a side flip – a motion that requires complex mid-air torque control and lateral body awareness. [Read more…] about Humanoid robot executes groundbreaking side flip in stunning video

Automaker BYD to sell ‘general-purpose’ humanoid robots for $10,000 each

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BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle and battery manufacturer, has launched a new solar-powered humanoid robot, named “BoYoboD”.

This “general-purpose” robot is designed to assist with various household chores, including laundry, folding clothes, vacuuming, raking leaves, and cleaning bathrooms. Priced at approximately $10,000 (73,000 yuan), BYD plans to begin deliveries in China by December 2025.

BoYoboD is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence and features a solar power charging kit. Users can place the accompanying solar panel system outdoors, allowing the robot to autonomously recharge when its battery falls below a user-defined threshold. [Read more…] about Automaker BYD to sell ‘general-purpose’ humanoid robots for $10,000 each