During the ongoing CES 2026 event in Las Vegas, portable energy leader Jackery introduced a standout innovation. While we’ve seen plenty of breakthrough announcements in display tech, computers, and more, this model brings a smarter and more portable solution to sustainable power. Jacket’s new Solar Mars Bot is a self navigating solar generator that brings a new level of mobility to solar power generation. So let’s check it out.

Solar Mars Bot: Portable robot butler for your charging needs

Moving beyond traditional fixed panels, this robot is designed to seek out the best sunlight throughout the day and charge itself autonomously, offering flexible power solutions for both home and outdoor use. What helps the Solar Mars Bot truly stand out is its ability to operate independently. Equipped with AI powered vision and navigation systems, the bot can roam across your backyard or a campsite to identify the best spot with sunlight.

It can even adjust its position to make the most of the available sunlight and charge up its battery. Its foldable solar array expands into multiple panels when charging, offering up to 600 watts of solar input. Once its solar array has absorbed energy, the Solar Mars Bot can distribute that power to external devices through a variety of output ports, effectively acting as a portable power station that moves to where you need it most.

Jacket’s Solar Mars Bot can monitor its own battery levels, return to a charging base when needed, and display status feedback via a companion mobile app. Remote control and monitoring over 5G/4G let owners track the bot’s battery and positioning in real time. The onboard battery is large enough to support longer off-grid stays, such as powering tools, electronics, or outdoor entertainment setups, while rugged design choices mean the robot can handle varied terrain and weather conditions.

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LG Electronics has announced LG CLOiD, an AI-powered home robot that will be shown publicly for the first time at CES 2026. The robot is designed to handle and coordinate everyday household tasks by working directly with connected home appliances. LG says the goal is to reduce the time and physical effort required for routine chores.

At CES 2026, LG will demonstrate CLOiD in realistic home settings. In one example, the robot takes milk from a refrigerator and places a croissant into an oven to prepare breakfast. After the occupants leave the house, CLOiD starts the laundry, then folds and stacks clothes once drying is complete. These demonstrations focus on showing how the robot understands daily routines and controls appliances based on user habits rather than fixed commands.

LG CLOiD’s hardware is designed for use inside living spaces. The robot consists of a head unit, a torso with two articulated arms, and a wheeled base with autonomous navigation. The torso can tilt to change height, allowing the robot to pick up items from knee level and from higher surfaces. Each arm has seven degrees of freedom, similar to a human arm, with movement at the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Each hand has five independently actuated fingers, enabling precise handling of household objects in kitchens, laundry rooms, and living areas.

The wheeled base uses autonomous driving technology derived from LG’s robot vacuum products and the LG Q9. The low center of gravity improves stability and helps prevent tipping if the robot is bumped by a child or pet. LG selected this design for safety, stability, and cost efficiency.

The head of LG CLOiD functions as a mobile AI home hub. It includes the main chipset, a display, a speaker, cameras, multiple sensors, and voice-based generative AI. These components allow the robot to communicate using speech and facial expressions, learn home layouts and user lifestyles, and control connected appliances based on what it learns.

At the core of CLOiD is LG’s Physical AI technology. This combines Vision Language Models, which convert images and video into language-based understanding, and Vision Language Action models, which turn visual and verbal input into physical actions. These systems have been trained on tens of thousands of hours of household task data.

LG also announced LG Actuator AXIUM, a new actuator brand for service robots. Actuators combine motors, drives, and reducers and are among the most critical and expensive robot components. LG plans to use its appliance manufacturing expertise to deliver compact, efficient, high-torque designs.

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Midea has officially unveiled its next-generation humanoid robot, Miro U, at an event in Guangzhou, China. The robot is the world’s first to feature a six-arm wheel-leg design, and it is built for complex industrial tasks and high-efficiency automation.

Miro U is an upgraded version of Midea’s previous wheeled humanoid robot, which began operations in August at the company’s Jingzhou factory. The older model worked alongside autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), single-arm four-wheel bots, Kuka robotic systems, and human workers. The new Miro U will soon join this setup to further boost operational efficiency.

The robot targets multitasking and factory automation efficiency

Midea’s Vice President and CTO Wei Chang confirmed that Miro U is the third-generation model in the company’s humanoid robot lineup. The robot supports vertical lifting and 360-degree in-place rotation. It features six bionic mechanical arms with high-precision control and fast-switching end-effector modules for different tasks. Midea developed the full technology stack in-house.

Midea plans to deploy Miro U at its high-end washing machine factory in Wuxi by the end of 2025. The robot is expected to improve takt time and increase production line adjustment efficiency by up to 30%.

Wei also outlined the broader roadmap for Midea’s humanoid robotics program. The industrial-focused ‘Miro’ series has completed three iterations, while the ‘Mila’ series, aimed at commercial and residential environments, is in final testing. Midea plans to introduce Mila robots at its offline experience stores in 2026 for customer guidance and interactive product demonstrations.

The company said it will continue to invest in artificial intelligence and robotics. Large-scale deployment of humanoid robots remains a key priority in Midea’s long-term strategy.

In related news, Unitree has unveiled its first wheeled humanoid robot recently with vision, gripping, and self-learning capabilities, while Dobot’s new $1,000 robot dog is shaping up to be one of the smartest robotic pets on the market.

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Unitree Robotics has officially introduced the G1-D, its first wheeled humanoid robot designed for advanced data collection and model training. The robot serves as the centerpiece of a full-stack solution that combines high-performance humanoid hardware with a scalable software platform for data acquisition, AI training, and real-world deployment.

Specifications

The G1-D is available in two versions: Standard and Flagship. Both models stand between 1260 mm and 1680 mm tall and weigh up to 80 kg. The Standard version is stationary, while the Flagship version features a mobile base that supports differential drive and can move at speeds of up to 1.5 meters per second. The mobile base includes sensors such as LiDAR, depth cameras, and collision detection units.

Unitree has equipped the G1-D with 17 degrees of freedom on the Standard model and 19 on the Flagship model, excluding the end effectors. Each arm has seven degrees of freedom and supports a payload of up to 3 kg. The robot’s waist joint allows motion along the Z-axis up to ±155 degrees and along the Y-axis between -2.5 and +135 degrees. The platform supports a vertical working range of 0 to 2 meters.

The robot features a high-definition binocular camera on its head and an additional HD camera on each wrist. It supports various end effectors, including a two-finger gripper, three-finger dexterous hands with or without tactile sensors, and a five-finger dexterous hand. Unitree has powered the G1-D with an Nvidia Jetson Orin NX module that delivers up to 100 TOPS of AI performance. The Flagship version offers a battery life of up to six hours.

The G1-D is designed for a wide range of real-world applications. It can perform repetitive manual tasks in industrial and service environments, assist in warehouse automation, collect and annotate data for AI training, and even interact with retail or consumer settings using its onboard vision and mobility. The robot’s dexterous hands and mobile base allow it to manipulate objects, conduct inspections, or serve as a data-gathering agent in complex environments.

Alongside the hardware, Unitree has launched a comprehensive software stack that manages the entire AI workflow. This includes data acquisition tools, task management, annotation systems, and real-time tracking. The platform supports distributed training and integrates with popular open-source frameworks such as GROOT and PI. It also includes a simulation environment for model evaluation and supports seamless export and deployment of trained models.

In related news, Alibaba has recently unveiled its first self-developed AI glasses featuring swappable batteries, a POV camera, and the Qwen assistant. Meanwhile, an LSE study predicts that by 2028, Gen Alpha will rely on voice rather than keyboards at work.

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Dobot is bringing factory-grade robotics into your living room with the launch of the Rover X1, the world’s first household intelligent robot priced at 7,499 yuan ($1,053). But this isn’t just another quadruped that does a cute dance on command; it’s designed to be a full-fledged smart assistant that can patrol your home, teach your kids to code, follow you through the woods, and carry your groceries.

Dobot Rover X1 Specifications

The Rover X1 runs on a dual-vision tracking system that gives it omnidirectional perception. It constantly maps and analyzes its surroundings in real time, making autonomous decisions without relying on manual commands. That makes it smarter than most home robots currently stuck in reactive mode. Its hybrid wheel-leg design lets it scale small slopes, move across grass, and handle hardwood floors while carrying actual cargo.

Dobot envisions the Rover X1 not as a toy but a multipurpose platform. You can mount a camera on its back for autonomous filming, let it patrol your home while streaming real-time footage to your phone, or turn it into a programmable learning tool. The open system supports both drag-and-drop visual coding and syntax-based programming, making it an ideal entry point for kids exploring robotics.

The robot can also function as an emotional companion. It follows voice commands, trails its owner around the house, lights up expressively, and even hauls small items like school bags or water bottles. In a world filled with smart speakers and AI bots stuck in a corner, the Rover X1’s mobility and modularity give it a distinct edge.

Detailed specs and an official product page are still under wraps, but if Dobot can back this up with durable hardware and usable software, the Rover X1 could redefine what it means to have a smart companion at home.

In related news, OpenAI-backed 1X Technologies has unveiled Neo, a $20,000 humanoid robot designed for home use, set to ship in 2026 with AI-driven task automation and remote assistance capabilities.

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1X Technologies, a robotics startup backed by OpenAI, has opened preorders for its first consumer-facing humanoid robot named Neo. The robot costs $20,000, with shipments set to begin in the United States in 2026, followed by a global release in 2027.

Specifications and Design

Neo stands 1.68 meters tall and weighs around 30 kilograms. It uses tendon-driven actuators and features a soft body made of 3D lattice polymer. The robot has a low operating noise of 22 decibels and can operate for up to four hours on a single charge. It can carry loads up to 24.95 kilograms and lift objects weighing up to 69.85 kilograms. Neo is available in three color options: Tan, Grey, and Dark Brown.

1X says Neo can take care of everyday household chores, including folding laundry, organizing shelves, and cleaning rooms. The robot can be operated through voice commands or a dedicated mobile app that supports task scheduling and real-time monitoring. It also includes a built-in large language model that enables contextual conversations, answers user queries, and offers helpful suggestions.

Neo combines audio, visual, and memory-based data to personalize its behavior and recognize when it is being addressed. It can also process visual information to identify kitchen ingredients and suggest recipes accordingly.

During its early stages of development, Neo relies on a feature called Expert Mode for tasks it does not yet understand. Through this system, users can schedule remote assistance sessions where a human operator from 1X can take control using a VR headset. These sessions require user consent, and privacy options let users blur faces, define private zones, and restrict access.

1X says it has implemented multiple security layers to protect user privacy. The company emphasized that early adopters should expect some level of human teleoperation to support Neo’s AI training. CEO Bernt Øyvind Børnich described this as part of a “social contract” between users and the company to help advance the technology.

Pricing and Availability

The robot is now available for preorder on the official 1X website with a refundable deposit of $200. The company also offers a $499 monthly subscription plan for those who prefer not to pay the full price upfront.

In related AI news, a study finds that AI search engines tend to cite lesser-known websites over popular sources. Meanwhile, Google has introduced Vibe Coding in AI Studio, allowing developers to create AI apps from a single prompt.

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At China’s 2025 National People’s Congress, a miniature robotic dog named Sparky captured attention with its compact design, fluid motion, and intelligent interaction. Developed by Hengbot, Sparky isn’t just another quadruped robot, it’s a customizable, ultra-light companion built for entertainment and development. The company has confirmed that Sparky is set to launch around May or June, opening up a new category of desktop-friendly robotic pets.

Tiny Desktop Robot Dog with Big Features

Unlike the larger, industrial-focused robotic dogs from companies like Boston Dynamics and Xiaomi, Sparky weighs just 850 grams, making it small enough to rest in the palm of your hand. It boasts 14 degrees of freedom, allowing for impressively fluid movements, including walking, jumping, and even dancing.

Hengbot designed Sparky with a bionic linkage structure, meaning its legs mimic natural motion while providing mechanical efficiency. Users can upgrade the power system, swapping out its actuator units much like upgrading a motor in a high-performance RC car. Additionally, its customizable shell lets owners personalize the bot’s aesthetics, akin to swapping phone cases.

Sparky isn’t just about movement, it’s about engagement. The robot can understand and respond to commands, with support for multiple control methods, including a dedicated app, remote controller, and even AR/VR interfaces. It comes with a built-in microphone and camera simulation system that enable it to recognize and react to its surroundings, though the front panel’s camera effect is purely animated.

The robot also comes with a drag-and-drop teaching mode, allowing users to create movement sequences without any coding skills. By recording in the software and physically demonstrating an action, they can program Sparky to replicate tasks, from basic tricks to intricate dance routines.

In terms of specs, Sparky is equipped with a touch sensor on its head, a display screen, a camera, a speaker, an SD card slot, a USB port, and ear buttons for additional control and customization options.

With dimensions of 250×130×250mm, it remains compact while offering a maximum load capacity of 300g. It operates efficiently in temperatures ranging from 10-30°C, delivers a runtime of over 45 minutes, and moves at a top speed of 0.4m/s.

Sparky runs on Linux and supports C, C++, and Python programming, making it an excellent platform for developers. It uses a PD30W power interface, ensuring efficient and reliable charging for extended operation.

Before hitting mainstream retail, Sparky is set to debut on Kickstarter, with a projected price range of $500 to $600. After the crowdfunding phase, it will be available on platforms like Amazon, catering to tech enthusiasts, hobbyists, and AI developers looking for an interactive platform.

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Tesla‘s Optimus humanoid robot is back in action, and this time it’s tackling a real-world task: precisely inserting battery cells into a tray. The latest video, shared by Tesla on May 5th, showcases the robot’s progress with a neural network trained to interpret 2D camera footage and onboard sensor data. This allows Optimus to directly generate the necessary joint movements for the task.

Tesla also reported that multiple Optimus robots are now being deployed in factories

This isn’t just a one-off demo – Tesla officials report that several Optimus robots are now deployed in their factories, undergoing daily testing and refinement on actual workstations. They’ve even mastered navigating the office environment for extended periods without incident, though achieving higher speeds remains a work in progress.

These developments align with Tesla CEO Elon Musk‘s earlier statements. During the first-quarter earnings call, Musk projected Optimus to be capable of completing “useful” factory tasks by year’s end. The company aims to utilize Optimus in their own production facilities before the year is out, with potential sales to external customers by the end of 2025.

Click here to watch the video on X.

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The Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center has unveiled the “Tiangong,” a humanoid robot capable of human-like running at a speed of 6 kilometers per hour. This marks a significant development in the field of robotics, with Tiangong being the world’s first fully electrically driven humanoid robot to achieve this feat.

Tiangong Designed for Diverse Applications

Standing at 163 centimeters tall and weighing 43 kilograms, Tiangong boasts a lightweight design that allows for stable running. It utilizes multiple visual perception sensors, a high-precision inertial measurement unit (IMU), and 3D vision sensors, enabling it to navigate its environment effectively. Additionally, the robot is equipped with high-precision six-dimensional force sensors for accurate force feedback.

Tiangong utilizes a new humanoid robot motion skill learning method called “State Memory-based Predictive Reinforcement Imitation Learning.” This method played a crucial role in achieving the robot’s ability to run naturally.

The developers have emphasized the openness and compatibility of Tiangong, allowing for open communication interfaces and flexible expansion of software, hardware, and other functional modules. This adaptability ensures the robot’s potential for various application scenarios.

Tiangong successfully navigated slopes and stairs even without visual input, showcasing its ability to adapt to changing environments. It also demonstrated agility by adjusting its gait when encountering obstacles or uneven terrain.

The unveiling of Tiangong marks a significant advancement in humanoid robot development. Its ability to run naturally opens doors for potential applications in various fields, including search and rescue operations, disaster response, and the manufacturing industry. While further research and development are likely needed, Tiangong presents a promising step towards more versatile and adaptable humanoid robots in the future.

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Menteebot, a new product by Mentee Robotics, takes AI technology to a whole new level with a human-sized robot designed for in-home or commercial use. This “personalized AI-based robot” boasts advanced AI algorithms, natural language processing, and software that facilitates “advanced training techniques.” Menteebot can walk, run, and even turn sideways, all with a level of balance and control comparable to a human. The manufacturer assures that the robot can adjust its gait for tasks like lifting heavy objects, which it can handle effortlessly due to its large size. Unlike some humanoid robots, Menteebot lacks a head, giving it a less imposing presence.

The robot can hold conversations and respond in natural language

Menteebot distinguishes itself from other humanoid robots through its advanced AI capabilities. It can hold conversations and respond to commands delivered in natural language. Furthermore, users can train the robot to perform new tasks through a unique method. Imagine a simulated version of Menteebot completing a task digitally over and over again until it’s mastered. Once the training is complete, the robot should then be able to perform the task in the real world, for instance, pouring the milk.

Menteebot appears to be quite agile, with videos showcasing its ability to run and perform a variety of movements. Its arms and hands boast a full range of motion with sufficient precision for delicate tasks, as demonstrated in a video where Menteebot carefully hands a piece of dishware to a person.

While Menteebot won’t be available until 2025, and the initial promotional materials are likely to be more optimistic than reality, Menteebot is still an impressive feat of engineering. The exact price point remains unknown. Menteebot will come in two variants: a residential model for household chores and a commercial model designed for manual labor applications.

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No, this is not a new optimistic robot that requires positive reinforcement. Stanford researchers have introduced YAY, a system that lets you yell instructions at your robot to improve its performance in real-time. This approach goes beyond standard programming, allowing for dynamic adjustments during tasks.

The robot gets better in real-time as it learns from the user’s instructions

Imagine your robot struggling to put a soft ball in a box. With YAY, you can simply shout “Squeeze the ball” and the robot will adapt its strategy. These corrective instructions are then stored by the system to enhance future performance. YAY allows the user to give shouted orders for complex tasks like bagging groceries, mixing fruits, and washing dishes. These tasks often require bimanual manipulation and handling soft objects like sponges, where precise control is crucial.

For example, if the robot drops a sponge while bagging groceries, you can shout “Move to me, then left” to guide it. The robot might need a few tries, but it will learn from the “go left” command to eventually succeed.

Beyond error correction, YAY allows you to adjust task details on the fly. Let’s say the robot grabs too much candy while filling a box. Shouting “Less!” prompts the robot to put some candy back. These human-issued instructions are used to fine-tune the system, leading to a reported 20% increase in successful task completion.

YAY’s architecture revolves around high-level and low-level strategies. The high-level strategy analyzes camera data and generates instructions for the low-level strategy, which controls the robot’s movements. Importantly, human voice commands override everything else, ensuring real-time correction.

The system also incorporates a feedback loop. Verbal corrections are recorded and used to refine the high-level strategy, making the robot less reliant on immediate voice commands over time. This allows for continuous learning and improvement even after basic training. YAY holds promise for creating adaptable housework robots that can respond to our needs and learn from our guidance. Let’s see how this evolves in the near future.

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Australian engineer Marita Cheng’s company, Aubot, introduces its latest innovation, Teleport. This cutting-edge teleconferencing robot is poised to revolutionize remote communication for users worldwide.

Founded by Cheng in 2013, Aubot has been dedicated to crafting technology that assists people in their everyday lives. Teleport, introduced in 2016, embodies this ethos by offering a unique solution to the challenges of distance.

Teleport is a sleek robot with a 10-inch screen and three wheels for mobility. Unlike traditional video conferencing, users control Teleport via a laptop keyboard, providing a more intuitive experience. Its applications extend far beyond the workplace, finding utility in education, family connections, event organization, security, and disability empowerment.

Manufactured in Shenzhen, China, Teleport benefits from the city’s expertise in rapid prototyping and collaboration with suppliers. However, final assembly and quality control take place in Melbourne, ensuring adherence to Aubot’s high standards.

Marita Cheng’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by her commitment to breaking gender barriers in the tech industry. Named one of Forbes’ World’s Top 50 Women in Tech in 2018, Cheng’s vision for Aubot stems from her childhood fascination with robots and her desire to make a positive impact on society.

Teleport’s features include a wide-angle lens, long battery life, clear audio communication, and obstacle avoidance sensors. These functionalities make it versatile and user-friendly across various environments.

As Teleport hits the market, it promises to revolutionize how we communicate remotely. With its innovative design and Marita Cheng’s unwavering dedication, Aubot is poised to make a significant mark on the world of technology.

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iFlytek has officially launched its latest iteration in smart home cleaning, the AI Sweeping and Mopping Robot X3, available for purchase in the Chinese market. The new model sits under X3 Pro which launched last year in December. The X3 robot is priced at 3999 yuan ($556) and it is now available for pre-order on JD.com. Let’s check out the key specs.

iFlytek X3 Specifications:

The X3’s core strength lies in its “AI strategic cleaning,” which leverages a potent combination of real-time stain identification and a unique “point and sweep” capability. Equipped with intelligent algorithms, the robot can reportedly identify liquid stains and promptly pivot 180 degrees to mop them, effectively preventing secondary contamination. Users can even direct the X3 to clean specific areas by simply pointing, fostering a truly interactive cleaning experience.

This intelligent cleaning prowess is fueled by a robust 6-core AI chip and an ultra-long-distance high-precision lidar sensor. The chip delivers the necessary processing power for obstacle avoidance, navigation, and stain recognition, while the lidar ensures accurate mapping and object detection. Furthermore, the X3 can navigate obstacles up to 2cm high and boasts automatic night-fill light for uninterrupted cleaning in low-light environments.

The X3’s intelligence extends beyond stain detection. It integrates the “iFLYOS operation control” system, enabling voice-controlled cleaning. Users can simply issue commands like “Increase suction” or “Clean the living room” to effortlessly direct the robot’s actions.

For those seeking a more hands-on approach, the X3 offers gesture control compatibility. By pointing a finger at a specific area, users can instruct the robot to clean that spot, making quick cleanups of small messes a breeze.

The X3 boasts a ten-function base station that supports a comprehensive cleaning cycle—sweeping, rolling, sucking, mopping, and washing—coupled with a 99.9% effective silver ion sterilization for a deep clean that promotes a healthier living environment.

The base station also facilitates automatic hot air drying, dust collection, and mop washing, making maintenance virtually effortless. With a robust 5200mAh battery, 400ml dust box capacity, and a 60W power rating, the X3 ensures extensive cleaning coverage and efficiency.

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Gone are the days when farming solely depended on the hard work of cattle and humans. A revolution is unfolding in rural Shanghai, where agricultural robots are taking over tasks that were once the epitome of manual labor. At the heart of this transformation is Diantian Farm, a place where technology and tradition are blending together.

These robots can handle multiple farming tasks, from planting to harvesting

Engineers, not cattle, are the new workforce here, with over 70 professionals, including Li Wei, steering these technological marvels through fields of rice. These robots, over 60 types developed through diligent research over seven years, are redefining what it means to work the land. From planting to harvesting, these machines do it all, navigating the terrain with crawler feet and making decisions with their advanced AI brains.

The simplicity of operating these robots is astonishing. Farmers, using just their smartphones, can awaken these mechanical helpers to start their day. Wang Jinyue, who leads the Diantian cooperative, shares a personal connection to this innovation, having experienced the grueling reality of farm work firsthand. Today, robots line the fields, working efficiently and without the need for rest, embodying the advancements in technology such as 5G, image recognition, and big data.

These robots are not just laborers; they’re smart workers. Weeding robots, for instance, can distinguish between crops and unwanted plants, targeting weeds with precision, all thanks to a system that operates on China’s own BeiDou Navigation Satellite System. This high-tech approach is not limited to Diantian Farm. Across China, in places like Hanzhong, Shaanxi province, intelligent equipment is making vegetable cultivation not only more efficient but also less labor-intensive.

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Roborock, a leader in home cleaning technology, has just announced the launch of its latest robotic cleaners, the P10S and P10S Pro, marking a significant advancement in the realm of automated home cleaning solutions. These new models are successors to the P10 and P10 Pro, which were launched last year.

Roborock P10S Pro Specifications:

The flagship model, the P10S Pro, stands out with its unique dual telescopic mechanical arms, a feature engineered to extend the robot‘s reach into edges and corners, achieving a remarkable 98.8% coverage. This innovative approach addresses one of the most common challenges faced by robotic vacuum cleaners, ensuring comprehensive cleaning across all areas of the home.

Furthermore, the P10S Pro is equipped with a self-maintaining dual spiral sweeping system that combines dual-brush inward rolling with a powerful 11000Pa suction capability.

This system is designed to provide an efficient cleaning process by suctioning, rolling, and cutting debris, making it particularly effective in homes with carpets and pets. The enhanced system aims to lower maintenance needs and offer a hassle-free cleaning solution. It also features a 99.7% sterilization rate with hot water washing at 60°C.

Roborock P10S Pro also features self-cleaning mopping technology and smart water management, achieving a 99.99% ground sterilization rate. Its compact design fits various home environments, and the Roborock SmartPlan AI optimizes cleaning plans. A versatile base station supports hot water washing, automatic dust collection, and water replenishment, enhancing the cleaning experience.

Roborock P10S Specifications:

The P10S model is designed to be both versatile and affordable, without compromising on performance. It features a 98.8% dynamic mechanical arm for comprehensive edge and corner coverage, a 7000Pa ultra-strong suction, and a soft rubber main brush to minimize hair entanglement.

It provides high-temperature sterilization and washing at 60°C for dynamic mopping and boasts a self-cleaning ability with a space-saving mini base station. The FlexiArm design ensures dynamic edge mopping with a 98.8% coverage rate. The robot also features an antibacterial system, dynamic wet mopping, and a 99.99% floor sterilization rate.

The devices also support various control methods, including voice commands and smart device integration. Both models are integrated with Roborock’s latest SmartPlan AI, which enables the robots to intelligently plan and optimize cleaning paths based on user habits and specific home layouts, such as room types and flooring materials.

This AI-driven approach ensures a tailored cleaning experience that adjusts to the unique needs of each household. Additionally, the introduction of Pet Mode 3.0 offers targeted cleaning for homes with pets, focusing on deep cleaning of pet-related areas and items, further enhancing the convenience for pet owners.

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SenseTime, a Chinese AI company, introduced the “Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot” in June last year in China. This innovative robot is designed for the ancient game of Go (Weiqi) and has now made its entry into the Japanese market. The robot, carrying the model name RG2W-P, is a part of SenseTime’s Yuanluobo brand. It is poised to revolutionize the way Go is played and learned in Japan.

Bridging Tradition and AI in the World of Board Games

Go, the game at the heart of Yuanluobo’s technology, is an ancient Chinese abstract strategy board game. It’s one of the oldest continuously played board games, dating back over 2,500 years. The objective is to surround more territory than the opponent. This game has attracted major tech companies’ attention, notably with Google’s AI program Alpha Go defeating a human Go world champion in 2016, a significant milestone in AI development. Go is a deterministic strategy game with perfect information, categorized with chess, checkers, and Othello in combinatorial game theory, emphasizing its strategic depth and complexity.

Coming to the product, the AI Chess robot stands out due to its ability to customize the initial chess skill levels and gradually unlock more challenging levels. This feature allows players to engage with the robot at over 20 different skill levels, offering a versatile and adaptive learning experience for Go enthusiasts of varying proficiencies.

The entry of the Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot into the Japanese market is a strategic move, considering the rich historical ties between China and Japan in the context of Go. Mr. Shi Jun, Vice President of SenseTime Technology and President of the Asia-Pacific Business Group, emphasizes this cultural significance, viewing the robot’s introduction as a continuation of the long-standing cultural exchange between the two countries.

Pricing and Availability

This AI-powered chess robot is set to be available at various locations across Japan, including Go clubs, Go classrooms, Takashimaya department stores, and Amazon, starting from January 5, 2024.

The pricing details for the Yuanluobo AI Go robot in Japan are currently uncertain. However, in China, it is available with a standard version priced at 3,799 yuan (US$531) and a premium version that includes a case and power bank, priced at 4,999 yuan ($699).

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Xiaomi has unveiled its latest robot vacuum product, the Xiaomi MiJia All-in-One Sweep and Mop Robot M30 Pro. The product is currently listed on JD.com with a price of 4699 yuan ($663). Let’s check out the key specs of this product.

Mijia All-in-One Sweep and Mop Robot M30 Pro Key Features:

The robot features an innovative “hair cutting” base with a high-strength stainless steel cutting module. After cleaning, it returns to the base, where it rotates and moves sideways to efficiently cut hair tangled in its roller brush, which is subsequently suctioned into a dust box.

The robot boasts advanced technology to enhance its performance, including AI-based object recognition capable of identifying 55 types of objects and an AI dirt recognition algorithm for real-time identification of dirt types, facilitating intelligent re-sweeping.

It also features LED night vision for low-light conditions, LDS laser navigation for precise 360° scanning and mapping, a powerful 7000Pa fan, smart carpet recognition, and automatic mop lifting, ensuring effective cleaning without harming carpets.

This cleaning robot is designed to address various cleaning challenges. It can heat water to 60°C for effective mopping, dissolving tough stains like sauce, and has a hot air drying system that dries the mop in just two hours, eliminating the need for manual drying.

The robot includes a dual airway automatic dust collection system, reducing the frequency of emptying the dust bag to once every 75 days. It boasts a large 4L clean water tank and a dirty water tank, claiming to clean areas of up to 240m² in one session. Additionally, it offers optional automatic water supply and drainage capabilities. The robot includes a 4800mAh battery.

The M30 Pro is integrated with the Mijia App and Xiao Ai voice control, offering remote control of cleaning tasks and customization features such as scheduling and restricted area settings. This integration extends to other Xiaomi smart devices, enabling automated cleaning routines based on user presence.

We have recently conducted a review of the Narwal Freo, a highly-rated vacuum with a mop cleaner. If you’re searching for a new vacuum cleaner, you can read our review to learn more about this product.

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The popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technology is growing rapidly. While many people and companies see this as the future, others are concerned about the potential consequences. For many, the biggest fear is that AI will eventually turn against humanity and bring about our demise. It seems that these fears may be well-founded. In a recent incident in South Korea, a robot worker killed a man after mistaking him for a box. Here are the details…

Deadly Robot Accident Raises Alarms About the Safety of AI-Powered Machines

The tragedy occurred at a factory in Seoul, South Korea. The factory had been using robotic workers to reduce costs, as have many of their competitors. The industrial robot was tasked with lifting and stacking boxes of vegetables onto pallets. This helped the factory save time and money.

However, the industrial robot malfunctioned and a technician from the manufacturer was called to the factory to repair it. While the technician was inspecting the robot, it pushed a transport belt towards the man. The man was crushed by the force of the belt, suffering serious injuries to his chest and face. He was rushed to the hospital but died from his injuries.

Dongseong Agricultural Export Complex, the owner of the facility, has said that they will do everything they can to ensure a safe working environment. The incident has also reignited the debate about the safety of robotic technology. Unfortunately, factories are already dangerous places. While there are advantages to using technology to speed up the workforce, the risks are clear.

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While many still look at artificial intelligence (AI) with skepticism, fearing job loss or dystopian nightmares, Rice Robotics is flipping the script. Founded in Hong Kong and deeply rooted in the Japanese market, the start-up aims to redefine how we interact with AI by focusing on one core feature: friendliness.

The robots are installed with ‘puppy eyes’ cameras to make them more personable

Victor Lee, the brains behind Rice Robotics, is deploying a new fleet of these user-friendly bots at the Citic Tower skyscraper in Hong Kong. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill robots, though. Designed with “puppy eyes,” they are integrated into the building’s management system, providing 24/7 service from disinfection to deliveries.

Lee says the success in Japan stems from pressing concerns like an aging population and labor shortages. It seems the Land of the Rising Sun has been quicker to embrace this new friendly face of automation. And according to data, they aren’t alone. A 2022 report shows that sales of service robots increased by 48% year-on-year globally, with the hospitality sector growing at a whopping 125%.

But what sets Rice Robotics apart? According to Lee, it’s the human factor. The design of these robots aims to make the user experience as natural as possible. Lee believes that this tailored approach will catch on in Hong Kong, despite its current focus on “human-enhanced” automation rather than outright labor replacement.

In a world where robots are becoming a common sight—from serving food in Korean restaurants to airport cleaning—Rice Robotics aims to change not just what these robots do but how we feel about them.

Victor Lee has lofty plans for expansion beyond current markets by next year. With the company’s success pivoted on friendly design and seamless user experience, Rice Robotics is not just leading in automation but also in dismantling the age-old fears surrounding it. And perhaps, that’s the real game-changer here, considering people are still skeptical of AI.

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Artificial intelligence and robotic technologies are advancing every day. As a result, we frequently write about robots developed by Boston Dynamics, Xiaomi, and Samsung. Even though we might not see these advancements in our daily lives beyond robotic vacuums, the business world is rapidly adopting them. For instance, Amazon has recently enhanced its warehouse robots, making them faster and even more intelligent. Here are the details…

Amazon’s New Sequoia Robotics System Promises to Improve Worker Efficiency and Health

The world’s largest digital shopping platform, Amazon, operates in many countries. What sets the company apart from its competitors is that in addition to its open marketplace, it has its own warehouses and distributes products from these warehouses in the locations it operates.

This not only improves customer satisfaction but also reduces delivery waiting times. For instance, even if a product is more expensive on another platform, I prefer to purchase it from Amazon if it’s sold there. Of course, this presents another operational challenge for the company: managing warehouse operations. Fortunately, Amazon addresses this issue with robotic and artificial intelligence technologies.

Amazon has announced a new robotics system called Sequoia, which is designed to improve worker efficiency and health, as well as lead to higher customer satisfaction. Sequoia is a set of integrated robotics systems that includes mobile robots, gantry systems, robotic arms, and a new ergonomic employee workstation.

Sequoia works by having mobile robots transport containerized inventory directly to a gantry. The gantry can either restock totes or send them to an employee to pick out the inventory that customers have ordered. Sequoia allows Amazon to identify and store inventory up to 75% faster than it could before, and it reduces the time it takes to process an order through a fulfillment center by up to 25%.

Sequoia is also designed to improve worker safety and health. The system brings totes of products to workers at a comfortable height, between their thighs and chest. This reduces the amount of bending and overhead reaching that workers have to do, which can help to prevent injuries. Amazon says that recordable incident rates were down 15% and lost-time incident rates were down 18% at Amazon Robotics sites in 2022, compared with non-robotics sites.

Amazon has not yet announced any plans for a wider rollout of Sequoia, but the system is currently operating in a Houston, Texas fulfillment center.

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The tech innovation is now being deployed by some Japanese cities to protect their populations against wild animal invasion. The robotic “Super Monster Wolves” or robo-wolf was first introduced to tackle invasive wild pigs but is now being used as well to deter wandering black and brown bears.

The solar-powered robotic wolves came into the limelight in 2017 when Japanese researchers started testing the prototype against wild boars ravaging farmlands. It has since progressed and a company, Wolf Kamuy has expanded its sales of these sentry gadgets.

The robo-wolf has menacing fangs, fur, and flashing LED eyes. Its head is capable of shaking side-to-side and the device can emit a 90dB howl. The robo-wolf is quite handy for rural Japanese communities with the fear of bears encroaching into living spaces. The robo-wolf is now being deployed as a deterrent for such bear encroachment.

The dual purpose of the super monster wolves is to protect both crops and farmers in rural communities. Recent reports have been seen on the dangers that bears pose to human activities due to possibly a shrinking of their habitat resulting from human activities.

There are indications that the bear population in some regions of Japan is increasing. It is estimated that there are about 22,000 bears located in the Hokkaido region. There have been up to 150 bear attacks in the last 60 years. However, in 2021 alone four fatalities were recorded. There are many cases reported of bears wandering into crowded towns and cities bordering wildlife areas.

It is believed that the robo-wolf’s howls effectively deterred bears from encroaching within up to 1 square kilometer radius. This is more expansive and better than any electric fence installation. When these robo-wolves are deployed expertly, they can provide protection for elderly communities and also protect the bears. The mix between the safety of the bears in their natural habitat and climate change, together with expanding development, calls for proper balancing between animal rights and human development.

Related:

(source)

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Giant robots have always been a theme in movies like Transformers or games like Titanfall up until now. Even though artificial intelligence and robotic technologies are quite advanced today, there wasn’t a product of such gigantic proportions available. That is, until now. Tsubame Industries, leveraging the power of advancing technology, has developed a 4.5-meter-tall (14.8-foot) four-wheeled called ARCHAX with a price tag of $3 million.

Japan’s $3 Million Transformers Robot ARCHAX, The Closest Thing Yet to Real Life

In today’s world, if you have enough money, you can buy almost anything. Moreover, the number of things you can purchase is continually increasing. The latest addition to this list is the “transformers” robot named ARCHAX, created by a Japanese startup called Tsubame Industries. ARCHAX features a cockpit with monitors that display images from cameras positioned on the robot’s exterior. This allows you to sit safely inside the cockpit and battle your “evil” adversaries.

The pilot uses joysticks to control the robot’s arms and hands. ARCHAX also has two modes: upright “robot mode” and “vehicle mode,” in which it can travel up to 10 kilometers per hour. ARCHAX is currently being sold for $3 million. The startup plans to build and sell five of the machines. However, the CEO of Tsubame Industries, Ryo Yoshida, has also said that he hopes that the robot could one day be used for disaster relief or in the space industry.

Of course, buying ARCHAX doesn’t solve all your problems. Depending on the regulations of your country, taking this wheeled robot into a public space might cause you issues. But if you consider that you’ve spent $3 million on a new robot, this might not be a significant concern. If Optimus could do it, I’m sure ARCHAX can too.

Jokes aside, it’s still too early to say how the robot will be used in the future. However, its development indicates that human-piloted robots are becoming more viable, and they might significantly influence society in the upcoming years. Although it seems like an expensive toy for now, who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see giant robots genuinely performing superhero feats and battling.

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Narwal has introduced two robot vacuum and mop models, the J4 and J4 Lite. The J4 is the flagship model, priced at 4299 yuan ($589), while the J4 Lite is more affordable at 3299 yuan ($452). The Narwal J4 robot is available in two versions: a manual water tank version and an automatic water supply version.

Narwal J4 and J4 Lite Robot Vacuum key features:

One problem many users have with robot vacuums is the struggle with hair getting tangled. The J4 has tackled this by using a strong suction of 7800Pa and a special U-pipe air system. Its roller brush can easily remove hair, making it great for households with pets or long-haired members. It has passed tests showing it can pick up almost all the hair and leaves no hair behind on the brush.

Mopping is another key feature of the J4. It can adjust its pressure based on the floor type to clean well without harming the floor. If the mop pad gets very dirty, the robot can clean it by itself. It has a unique dirt detection system to ensure thorough cleaning. The J4 also introduces a new kind of dustbin which combines with the filter. This helps dry out the waste quickly and reduces bacteria growth. Plus, there’s no need to transfer trash, which avoids extra mess.

The base station of the J4 vacuum cleaner is loaded with features. It can wash the mop cloth, refill water, add detergent, and dry the cloth with hot air. It can even clean itself. The robot can be controlled through an app where you can specify rooms and add furniture details.

Mapping is crucial for these robots. The J4 uses the IPS4.0 Whale Sense Perception System with three lasers to measure space and avoid obstacles efficiently. It also can remember dirty areas and clean them multiple times if needed. Edges and corners get special attention too. For carpets, the J4 can adjust its suction and avoid long carpets.

The J4 Lite, though cheaper, still has a strong 6800Pa suction and can handle hair well. Its dustbin can hold up to 1L and has an integrated filter.

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Xiaomi has expanded its portfolio of home appliances with the launch of the Mijia All-in-One Sweep and Mop Robot 2, priced at 3499 yuan ($487). This new model boasts a variety of upgrades over its predecessor, specifically designed to streamline household cleaning operations and add to the user’s convenience. The standard variant of Sweep and Mop Robot 2 launched back in April this year.

Mijia All-in-One Sweep and Mop Robot 2 features

The standout feature of the Mijia Mop Robot 2 is its “Fully Automatic Water Supply 2.0” system, which eliminates the need for complex water operations. With an upgraded anti-overflow design, users can now fill the water tank without worrying about spills. The robot takes care of refilling the water tank after washing the mop cloth, ensuring seamless cleaning without interruptions.

With a 4L super-large capacity water tank, it can mop an area of up to 500m² without frequent water refills. The improved suction power of 6000Pa ensures thorough cleaning, and the “twist and wipe” function and four cleaning modes enable the robot to reach corners and edges effortlessly.

On the smart side, the Mijia Mop Robot 2 incorporates the S-CrossTM Broad Area Structured Light Obstacle Avoidance System and a new generation of LDS laser navigation. These features allow the robot to navigate efficiently, avoiding obstacles even in low-light conditions. It scans the indoor environment in 360°, plans a smart cleaning path, and ensures comprehensive cleaning throughout the entire home.

Moreover, the robot offers various intelligent functions, such as sweeping before mopping, self-cleaning and auto-drying of the mop cloth, automatic lifting of the mop cloth, and intelligent linkage with other smart home devices.

Mijia Mop Robot 2 boasts a dual-air duct circulation dust collection design, enabling the dust box to be emptied in just 10 seconds. With its built-in large-capacity dust bag, the robot can go up to 75 days without needing to be emptied.

The device comes with a special pre-sale price of 2799 yuan ($390) and is now available to purchase from JD.com in China.

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Li Ming, a former founding member of Xiaomi, has introduced the world’s first Android desktop robot through his new venture, JoyfulRobotics. Priced at 1799 yuan ($252), the JoyfulRobotics Desktop Robot boasts an array of innovative features and is set to make waves in the AI+ hardware field.

JoyfulRobotics Desktop Robot: Features and Design

The robot’s design is characterized by a 2.1-inch circular screen, complemented by “ear-like” extensions on either side, giving it a unique and engaging appearance. Adding to its interactive capabilities, the robot also features movable legs that enable left and right movement.

Li Ming revealed that the robot operates on a proprietary system called GeeUI, which enables a range of human-machine interaction modes. At launch, users will have access to an electronic pet mode, function mode, and hybrid mode. Excitingly, future over-the-air (OTA) updates will unlock the robot’s complete native Android capabilities, allowing users to install Android apps and personalize their experience.

With Chinese voice capabilities, haptic feedback, air gesture control, smartphone mini-programs, and an undisclosed “fifth interaction mode,” the JoyfulRobotics Desktop Robot offers exceptional versatility. It also caters to advanced users by offering a developer edition ROM through OTA updates, granting full root access for extensive customization possibilities.

Standing at a height of 16.5cm, its 2.1-inch circular screen displays various information such as time, word memorization, message reminders, real-time hot topics, countdowns, stocks, and incoming calls. The robot is equipped with both wireless charging capabilities and support for USB-C wired charging. The robot’s interactive abilities are not limited to voice commands; it can also communicate through gestures, touch, and smartphone control, enabling seamless integration with users’ everyday lives.

The global launch of the JoyfulRobotics Desktop Robot is scheduled in collaboration with Tmall, with official sales starting on June 26 at 19:00.

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RoboUP has launched a Kickstarter campaign for its innovative No Perimeter Wire Robotic Lawn Mower. This interesting device helps you to maintain and manage your lawn easily, without any hassle. You can get the RoboUP T2000P Robotic lawn mower for $1699 under the Super Early Bird Offer. Apart from this, the campaign also offers various pledge options like early bird VIP specials and bundle deals that allow backers to choose the package that best suits their needs.

RoboUP Lawn Mower is the world’s first Robot Lawn Mower that uses RTK, robot vision, and AI technology to give you perfectly mowed and leveled lawns. Lawn care or lawn management is an important part of your housekeeping as a perfectly mowed lawn not only is aesthetically pleasing but also helps to keep your environment healthy and clean. Proper lawn care ensures that your lawn can withstand threats from lawn-damaging weeds and insects. It also ensures that your flowers, grass, and shrubs can fight off diseases. 

However, lawn management can be a tiring and time-consuming job. To keep your lawn healthy, attractive, and manageable you need to mow it every 6 to 7 days. With busy schedules, it often becomes difficult to find time to mow your lawn regularly and consistently. But you can choose the RoboUP lawn Mower to do this job for you and forget about your lawn maintenance forever.  

RoboUP gives you a perfectly mowed lawn for all types of yards, without the need for perimeter wiring. The robot comes with a proprietary Dynamic Exact Positioning System (DEPS) that helps it to mow efficiently in parallel lines and trim along edges with precision. Dual AI cameras, help it to avoid objects and living things and give you a safe and hazard-free mowing experience.

RoboUP No Perimeter Wire Lawn Mower features RTK GPS, Robot Vision, and AI that help it to navigate the yard without any need for perimeter wiring and also avoid obstacles and hurdles. The device can mow up to half an acre area on a single charge and can work on 45-degree slopes. 

Powered by the AI boundary real-time recognition and accompanying smart app you can go for multi-zone management and control the device remotely. RoboUP comes with an automatic charging function. This means once the device is out of charge it will automatically go to the charging station to juice up and resume its interrupted mowing session. 

RoboUP lawn mower comes with an anti-theft device and is easy to operate and maintain. It is a super silent lawn mower with less than 56dBA noise level and is IPX6 certified waterproof. Other interesting features include a built-in rain sensor, voice assistant support, patent floating front wheel design, etc. 

For more information on such exciting deals and offers check out our deals hub.

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Robotic clones of humans are normally something you will only hear in science fiction stories, but in our current world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, one company is making waves in the field of robotics today. Meet Clone Robotics: a cutting-edge tech startup that’s revolutionizing the way we think about androids.

Founded in November 2021 by Dhanush Radhakrishnan and Łukasz Koźlik, Clone Robotics has a bold mission: to build low-cost androids that can perform all the common labour in daily life. Imagine having an android chef, maid, nurse, teacher or therapist at your service – that’s the future that Clone Robotics claims the company is working towards.

One of their most impressive products is the Clone Hand – a power-dense, biomimetic anthropomorphic robotic hand that can perform a wide range of manipulation tasks. As shared by the CEO, Dhanush on Twitter, the company is aiming towards making synthetic humans, starting with a 1:1 copy of the human hand.

This advanced piece of technology has the potential to change the way we interact with machines and could have far-reaching implications for industries such as healthcare and manufacturing.

But what sets Clone Robotics apart from other companies in this field? For starters, their focus on biomimicry – using nature as inspiration for their designs – sets them apart from more traditional robotics companies. Additionally, their commitment to keeping costs low means that their products could be accessible to a wider audience.

With its cutting-edge technology and ambitious vision, it’s clear that Clone Robotics is a tech company to watch out for. As they continue to develop new products and push the boundaries of what’s possible with androids, it will be exciting to see what they come up with next.

Speaking about robotics, Microsoft recently revealed their plans to integrate ChatGPT in the robotics field, which could have a major impact on the robotics industry, of which Clone Robotics is currently a part of. 

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Researchers from the Light Robots group at Tampere University are working on a project called “FAIRY”. This project aims to make smart material fly. The team, led by Hao Zeng and Jianfeng Yang, have developed a polymer-assembly robot that is controlled by light and flies by the wind. Here are the details…

A fairy-like robot flies by the power of wind and light

The artificial fairy, which resembles a dandelion seed, is equipped with a soft actuator made of light-responsive liquid crystalline elastomer. Light can be used to change the shape of the robot and control its take-off and landing actions. The researchers will next focus on improving the material sensitivity to allow operation in sunlight, and up-scaling the structure to carry micro-electronic devices, sensors and biochemical compounds.

The potential applications of the robot are significant, including artificial pollination, where millions of artificial seeds could be dispersed by natural winds and then steered towards specific areas using light. The FAIRY project, which started in September 2021, has a duration of five years and is being researched in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Germany and Aalto University.

While the concept of an artificial fairy controlled by light and wind is promising, several challenges remain to be solved, such as precise control of landing spot, reusability and biodegradability. Close collaboration with materials scientists and those working in microrobotics will be necessary to address these issues. Next, the researchers will focus on improving the material sensitivity to enable the operation of the device in sunlight. In addition, they will up-scale the structure so that it can carry micro-electronic devices such as GPS and sensors as well as biochemical compounds.

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Amazon has unveiled a smart robot picker that it believes will revolutionize the warehouse workspace. The Amazon Sparrow uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify objects in the warehouse. The new robotic system portends significant improvements in efficiency and safety in the workspace. Amazon’s Sparrow can detect, select, and handle products in the inventory with finesse.

Sparrow uses computer vision and AI that makes it capable of identifying and handling millions of items in the warehouse. It will take on repetitive tasks, thus freeing employees to focus their time on other tasks. Because Sparrow will help drive automation, Amazon says it will improve efficiency in its service delivery. Amazon also says that by employing robots, it has created more than 700 new job categories.

However, Amazon seems to have a sticky record of workplace safety in locations where humans work alongside such robots. A 2020 report by the Center for Investigative Reporting indicated a damning performance in robot-human workplaces. In three years (2016-2019), there was a 50% higher rate of serious injuries for Amazon employees in automated facilities than at facilities not using robots.

There had been previous claims by Amazon warehouse workers that the company used the robots to ratchet up production quotas to an extremely high level that humans cannot keep pace anymore without hurting themselves. This heightened work profile for employees in automated warehouses seems to be corroborated by the investigative report. This suspicion of unfair work practices has made US regulatory agencies beam their search light on the logistics giant. The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration carried out long-awaited inspections last July to ascertain Amazon’s safety rating.

The unveiling of Sparrow falls in line with Amazon’s broader objectives of fully automating its workspaces. Amazon continues to battle agitations from its staff to unionize.

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In recent years, more and more companies have started to focus AI and Robots. Recently, Xiaomi unveiled its bionic robot called CyberOne, which looked quite interesting and advanced. And Last week, during the China International Service Trade Fair, Lenovo unveiled its first self-developed “remote stand-in” robot called the Lenovo Morningstar Robot S1.

As a “remote stand-in” robot, Morningstar S1 innovatively integrates the metaverse and industrial robots, says Lenovo. The robot is claimed to be used for remote inspections. It can be widely used in ordinary manual assembly lines, spraying workshops, radioactive laboratories, and other environments according to the needs of different production scenarios.

Morningstar S1 comes with a pair of AR glasses that can be used to view all the images and videos the robot captures in real-time. As per the company, the Robot’s body is made up of recycled plastic and low-carbon aluminum, which improves performance and durability while also leaving fewer carbon footprints, hence being more environment friendly.

Lenovo Morningstar Robot is said to have a height of 142cm, which is somewhat similar to the height of human vision. It uses a four-wheel independent suspension design, which improves the S1’s walking stability. It also provides a stable image output thanks to the addition of a two-axis high-performance gimbal. The robot is claimed to offer stable and clear images. It also reduces dizziness when users monitor remotely.

The Lenovo robot seems like a great product that can help many companies to a large extent. It has been developed for commercial use and we are not aware of its pricing. Moreover, the robot will likely be sold only in Mainland China.

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Border protection and monitoring have remained an integral component of national security for countries. This is more poignant for the United States which has a massive length of border and a mandate to effectively protect it from unauthorized entry. To this end, the United State may have incorporated quadrupedal machines in the form of robot dogs to serve as autonomous sentries at its borders. The testing of the robot patrol dogs is being done in the southern US border according to new details released by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The machines are being tested in a variety of surveillance situations which the Department says has been successful so far. There are no timelines for the full deployment of these autonomous quadrupedal robots but it could come soon, due to the successful tests. The development of these machines will continue according to the DHS, and the southern US border could be a great stage for these machines to excel, given its inhospitable terrain.

The development is being driven by the research and development arm of the DHS, the Science & Technology Directorate, which focuses on Automated Ground Surveillance Vehicles (AGSVs). The machines are built by robotics manufacturer Ghost Robotics, popular for its Ghost Vision 60 robot. The DHS trial robot dogs are fitted with cameras and sensors for inspections and are programmed to autonomously patrol pre-set GPS waypoints. They can inspect train cars at railyards, walk around undercarriages, explore residential buildings, and respond to meeting potentially hostile individuals. They are well suited for the uneven terrain on the border, as they can navigate easily using their four legs.

There are still several issues including ethical ones, on the possible deployment of these machines to the US border and interacting with humans, as some activists see it as dehumanizing. This is not the first time that this kind of quadrupedal machine will be deployed in the fight against criminality, but their accuracy and battery life are some of the factors that could slow down the evolution of these robot dogs.

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In recent years, robotics have steadily been entering the consumer electronics market. Back in August, Xiaomi had revealed its CyberDog and now, Xpeng, another company from China is working on a rideable robotic unicorn for children.

The known Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer is apparently branching out from automobile for a new product. The new Xpeng Robot Unicorn is an upcoming quadruped robot that takes a shape of a horse but with a unicorn styled design. It is being built with the company’s expertise in autonomous driving and other AI functions that will help it navigate different terrains, recognize objects and obstacles, and also provide “emotional interactions” as well.

Furthermore, the new robot will also be built with machine deep learning so it could better interact with users while also ensuring safety and good quality. The company is also looking to bring in more people for this project from different regions in China and even the United States from varying fields like automobiles, AI systems, and others. Looking at the design of the robotic unicorn, it resembles a horse like design but with a face that is built specifically to improve human interaction. It is said to support voice recognition along with facial recognition as well.

As of right now, the Chinese brand has just teaser this rideable robotic unicorn and has yet to reveal finer details regarding this product. Unfortunately, the pricing of this robot is also currently unknown but it could easily cost somewhere around 3,000 US Dollars. This could eventually also lead to someday the company releasing adult sized version of the product depending on how it performs in the market, but that is just speculation at the moment.

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Tesla, the US-based company known for making electric vehicles, is also in the business of solar roofs and solar panels. Now, the company is expanding its business and is set to launch a humanoid robot called Tesla Bot.

While making this announcement at AI Day, an actor in a bodysuit appeared on stage and Elon Musk pointed out that the Tesla Bot will look similar to it. The announcement also gives a peek at the future of Tesla as the company works on exciting new products that are scheduled to launch in the future.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has revealed that the company will build a humanoid robot and a prototype of the same could be unveiled next year. However, we would advise you to take this with a pinch of salt as such developments rarely happen on a given timeline and Tesla has a history of not sticking to the predicted timeframe.

There’s also a possibility that the product may not even see the light of day. For instance, a couple of years ago, in April 2019, Elon Musk said that Tesla would have one million autonomous “robotaxis” on the road in 2020. It’s 2021 and those robotaxis are nowhere to be seen.

Tesla Bot is codenamed “Optimus” and is powered by the same chips and sensors that the company is using for self-driving features on its cars. The robot is about five feet and eight inches tall, featuring a screen where the head is for useful information. It will be able to carry 45 pounds, lift 150 pounds, and can run 5 miles per hour.

Musk says that the company has a chance to transform the world economy by driving labor costs down if the humanoid robot works and can perform repetitive tasks that only humans can do today. But he has warned that the robot probably won’t work at first.

The popularity of robots has been on rising and thanks to the advancement in technology, many companies are now working on making robots. Recently, Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi launched CyberDog, a bio-inspired quadruped robot that is powered by NVIDIA’s Jetson Xavier NX AI Supercomputer, paired with 128GB of near-industrial grade SSD.

It can be controlled using the mobile app, voice control, and remote control. It has a wide range of movements including running, jumping, turning left or right, and leaning forward.  The robot can also do a backflip, roll around, and stand on its hind legs. It has a maximum walking speed of 3.2m/s and a maximum payload of 3kg. It is priced at 9,999 yuan which roughly converts to $1,541.

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The COVID-19 pandemic hit the airline industry very hard, and several airlines across the world are still grappling with the pandemic’s effects. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, many airports were shut down for extended periods. There were fears that the virus was being transmitted rapidly through airplanes. Even with the easing of air travel restrictions, the airlines have put in place an extensive screening protocol to ensure the safety of air passengers.

Now, a Swiss company, UVeya has developed robots capable of using ultraviolet light to screen passenger airplanes clean of viruses before humans board the aircraft. UVeya is conducting pilot trials within aircraft owned by Helvetic Airways, owned by Martin Ebner, a Swiss billionaire.

The pilot trials will establish whether the robots are indeed capable of killing all viruses in the aircraft through UV light. Simultaneously, the impact itself of the UV emission on the aircraft’s interior is also being examined. Before the UV spraying robots can be certified safe for use, all safety concerns must be addressed by the robot’s manufacturer.

UVeya co-founder Jodoc Elmiger says that aircraft manufacturers must certify the virus-killing system, and they are studying the impact of the UV light on the aircraft’s interior upholstery after many such UV disinfection. Elmiger is confident that robot cleaners could assure the flying populace’s safety even with the Covid-19 still prevalent.

UVeya already has three UV spraying robots, and it tested one of them in a Helvetic aircraft in Zurich Airport. The robot’s UV lights, mounted on a crucifix-shaped frame, illuminated the aircraft’s interior in a soft-blue glow as it went up the aisle. UVeya says the robot can disinfect a single-aisled plane in as low as 13 minutes.

If the pilot trials are successful, them UVeya may produce the robots in commercial quantities, and we would expect them to have a high demand for the UV spraying robots globally.

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US-based robotics manufacturer Boston Dynamics has released yet another robot to enhance logistics in the warehouse. The company claims its new robot called Stretch is very efficient and versatile, making it possible to deploy it to warehouses without installing additional automation infrastructure. According to Boston Dynamics, the Stretch robot can move boxes in the warehouse at an estimated throughput rate of 800 packages per hour.

The design of Stretch is a bit different from several of the previous logistics robots produced by Boston Dynamics since 2019 when it acquired Kinema Systems. It has a square mobile base, a set of wheels for navigation around its environment, a perception mast fitted with cameras and sensors to aid the robot’s intelligent movement. The Stretch robot also has massive robotic arms with seven degrees of freedom and a suction pad system that enables it to lift loads up to 23kg securely. The carrying capacity of the Stretch looks minimal, as it cannot deal with heavy loads, which are common.

Boston Dynamics is bringing mobility to warehouse automation. Watch Stretch – our new case handling robot – move, groove and unload trucks.

Read the announcement. https://t.co/5B7wDDKC38 pic.twitter.com/i3Dsoz9Tq8

— Boston Dynamics (@BostonDynamics) March 29, 2021

According to Michael Perry, VP of Business Development at Boston Dynamics, the robot can provide automation in environments that do not have automation infrastructure. It does not need additional tracks or other infrastructure for it to navigate seamlessly across the warehouse. The Stretch comes with a battery system that can power the robot for eight hours on a full charge. The robot can also be tethered to the mains electricity supply with ease.

Boston Dynamics is yet to put a price tag on the new robot. Its affordability may be a driving force that could encourage customers seeking an inexpensive and straightforward automation solution to their logistics problems. It remains to be seen how the robot will perform in the planned pilot scheme by Boston Dynamics to test the robot. The pilot run will precede the eventual commercial deployment of the Stretch robot in 2022.

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In 2016, Hong Kong-based robotics company Hanson Robotics first unveiled Sophia, a humanoid robot. The robot soon became an internet sensation as it went viral after unveiling. Hanson Robotics is now planning to commence mass production of the robots before the end of the year.

The Hong Kong-based company hinted that plans are in top gear to release four models, including Sophia. These models would start rolling out of factories in the first half of 2021. This news is coming as researchers predict the pandemic will open new opportunities for the robotics industry.

“The world of COVID-19 is going to need more and more automation to keep people safe,” founder and chief executive of Handon Robotics, David Hanson said. We ghve seen robots deployed in the healthcare and delivery industry  but Hanson CEO holds the believe that robotic solutions to the pandemic are not limited to healthcare but could assist customers in industries such as retail and airlines too.

“Sophia and Hanson robots are unique by being so human-like,” he added. “That can be so useful during these times where people are terribly lonely and socially isolated.” He rolled out plans to sell “thousands” of robots in 2021, both large and small” but failed to disclose the specufuc number the company us targeting.

Social robotics professor Johan Hoorn, whose research has included work with Sophia, said that although the technology is still in relative infancy, the pandemic could accelerate a relationship between humans and robots.

Hanson Robotics is also planning to launch a robot this year developed for the healthcare sector and called Grace.

Products from other big players in the industry are helping fight the pandemic as well. SoftBank Robotics’ Pepper robot was deployed to detect people who weren’t wearing masks. In China, robotics company CloudMinds helped set up a robot-run field hospital during the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan.

The use of robots was on the rise before the pandemic. According to a report by the International Federation of Robotics, worldwide sales of professional-service robots had already jumped 32% to $11.2 billion between 2018 and 2019.

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(source)

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UPDATE: Check out a video of the robot in action from below.

The original story continues;

A Japanese-made robot has become an instant hit and COVID-19 protocols enforcer, having joined the staff of a store with the mandate to ensure that customers wear masks and practice sufficient physical distancing to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.

This star robot, whose name is Robovie, was developed by leading robotic firm, Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) and offers guidance and direction to visitors to the official merchandise and memorabilia store of Osaka-based football club, Cerezo Osaka.

Robovie uses a powerful camera in combination with 3D laser beam technology and Artificial Intelligence to guide its operations. It warns customers immediately it detects that they are not wearing face masks or observing physical distancing rules.

Robovie’s deployment provides an innovative response to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic and an indication of how tech firms are providing solutions to human problems. The robot is on trial at the store for up to a month, in the first instance, ATR stated.

Till date, Japan has more than 120,000 reported cases of COVID-19 and about 2,000 deaths. Being close to China where the virus emanated, Japan has been able to exceptionally manage the pandemic better than many countries. Compliance to prevention protocols like regular use of facemasks in public places, physical distancing and hygienic practices.

However, authorities are not letting their guards down and are calling for vigilance amidst the likelihood of a second wave of infections after a resurgence in cases as the weather becomes colder and people spend more time in enclosed places.

The potential of robots playing a significant role in the response to future disease outbreaks is very promising. Robots had played important roles including in isolation centres and hospitals, providing safe solutions to very risky and hazardous situations for humans.

The use of Robots in Japan also includes cheerleading as spotted back in June during the professional baseball game where Fukuoka SoftBank Hawk hosted Rakuten Eagles. The host team owned by Softbank deployed over 20 robots to dance in a choreographed style to the team’s fight song on a podium in the stand which was entirely empty. Some of the robots include the famed Boston Dynamic’s Spot and Softbank’s humanoid robot named Pepper.

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A new Sony patent has revealed a bizarre new feature that could arrive for its upcoming PlayStation 5 gaming console. The patent describes a robot companion who watches users play the game and reacts to players’ emotional state. This is one of the latest Sony patents to be revealed, and it’s really strange, to say the least.

Sony’s PlayStation 5 will be the company’s latest generation of gaming console. It is touted to bring a significant performance improvement over previous generations and its release is extremely anticipated. However, at this point, finer details and most of the features regarding the gaming console are currently unknown apart from a few technical details.

Recently, Sony had unveiled the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller, but its details are also unknown as of now. However, the bizarre robot companion that might just ship with your PlayStation 5, may steal the spotlight from the console itself. According to a recent report, Sony’s latest tech project has the company develop a robot technology that watches one’s gameplay and reacts to players’ emotions.

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Sony’s official description reveals the reason for the companion as well. It states that the “data shows that when a player is being watched it boosts his/her motivation for playing.” In other words, players’ morale and motivation are boosted when he thinks he is being watched, so as to subconsciously perform better. Furthermore, Sony mentioned that “It is expected that the user’s affinity with the robot is increased and motivation for playing a game is enhanced by the robot viewing the gameplay next to the user and being pleased or sad together.”

The news was first reported by Respawn First that called the robot housing a “feeling deduction unit, configured to deduce the player’s feelings.” Unfortunately, whether this project is actually in development or not is still unknown. Only an official announcement could confirm this, but as it stands, it is more likely be the company securing every base right now.

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Chinese real estate giant Country Garden Holdings Co. Ltd. opened its first restaurant operated mainly by robots in Guangzhou over the weekend. The restaurant, named Foodom, located in Zhujiang New Town, mainly serves cuisine from Shunde, the hometown of founder Yang Guoqiang.

Robot waiters greet customers at the entrance. Using an AI system, they guide customers to their seats, recommend specials of the day and take orders. Food is delivered to the tables via a conveyor belt. The restaurant uses robots to cook, deliver food, take orders and guide customers.

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It is said that the robots are “learning” their skills from the top 10 Shunde chefs, using a computer program to follow every detail such as temperature control, ingredients, and cooking time. The program is repeatedly fine-tuned to reach the precision level required. In the kitchen alone, there are 32 robots preparing and cooking food.

After trying the dishes, famous local chef Lin Chao gave the restaurant the thumbs up. While there is no doubt about the sophisticated technology being used at Foodom, cost may be a deciding factor when it comes to commercial viability.

SoftBank-backed Zume Pizza, which also employs a high degree of automation, has suffered a serious setback due to excessive money burning and lack of continued funding support. Zume shuttered its pizza business and pivoted into food-truck tech and services in November 2019. Then, in January 2020, the company laid off 400 employees to further cut costs.

Country Garden has reportedly spent around 200 million yuan (US$29 million) setting up the new restaurant. One can’t help but wonder how long it would take for it to break even. The top developer, which sold more than 770 billion yuan worth of properties last year, is not worried at all. The deep-pocketed Yang is said to be planning to open 1,000 such robotic restaurants across China within two years, hoping to drive down costs through economies of scale.

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