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Articles tagged with "robotics"

Jensen Huang says 'every edge device will become autonomous' — Nvidia maps one computing pattern from the cloud to robotics

Jensen Huang says 'every edge device will become autonomous' — Nvidia maps one computing pattern from the cloud to robotics

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang discusses a new computing pattern at Computex, emphasizing the move towards AI-driven systems across various devices. The company introduces the Vera data-center CPU and RTX Spark platform for Windows PCs, focusing on agent-based computing rather than traditional core-centric designs. Huang highlights the importance of single-thread speed and memory bandwidth for efficient agent operation. Nvidia's Vera CPU shows promising performance compared to competitors, and the RTX Spark platform aims to revolutionize PC design for AI applications. The company also addresses memory constraints by utilizing low-precision formats and neural texture compression techniques.

Tom's Hardware•
This DIY Bipedal Robot Used Pneumatic “Air-Muscles” Instead of Motors

This DIY Bipedal Robot Used Pneumatic “Air-Muscles” Instead of Motors

A headless, armless bipedal robot called the Shadow Walker was created by a hobbyist group in the late 1980s, using pneumatic "air-muscles" instead of traditional motors. The creators of the Shadow Walker later went on to establish a pioneering robotics company. This DIY project showcased an innovative approach to robotics and highlighted the potential of using pneumatic technology in creating humanoid robots.

IEEE Spectrum•
The 'ultimate mosquito killer' uses lasers and AI — custom model trained to detect and lock lasers on these pests

The 'ultimate mosquito killer' uses lasers and AI — custom model trained to detect and lock lasers on these pests

A computer vision and robotics expert has developed an advanced mosquito killer that uses lasers and AI. Steven Cheng's project involves training a custom model to detect and target mosquitoes with precision using deep learning technology. The device, equipped with a laser cannon, is mounted on a high-precision gimbal for accurate targeting. Cheng successfully eliminated mosquitoes in his residence with this innovative solution, which outshines previous laser-based mosquito killers in terms of detection capabilities. Another similar product, the Photonmatrix, is set to ship in June 2026, offering a different approach to mosquito eradication.

Tom's Hardware•
A robot startup is wreaking havoc on short-term rentals in San Francisco — Airbnb hosts allege 'guests' secretly tested robots indoors, left the units completely trashed

A robot startup is wreaking havoc on short-term rentals in San Francisco — Airbnb hosts allege 'guests' secretly tested robots indoors, left the units completely trashed

A San Francisco startup called "The Bot Company" is allegedly using Airbnb rentals as secret testing grounds for robots, leaving properties damaged and trashed. Hosts like Sean Donovan have filed lawsuits against the startup for damages and lost income. The startup, led by Kyle Vogt, aims to develop household robots but operates under secrecy, using Airbnb rentals without informing hosts of its activities. Multiple hosts have reported similar experiences of their properties being used for robot testing without consent, leading to legal action against The Bot Company.

Tom's Hardware•
Agentic AI for Robot Teams

Agentic AI for Robot Teams

The article discusses a webinar on "Agentic AI for Robot Teams" presented by Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. It focuses on advancing agentic AI for collaborative robotic teams, addressing challenges in autonomy, coordination, and adaptability across diverse systems. The webinar introduces a scalable architecture supporting agentic behaviors in multi-robot environments and shares key challenges and lessons from ongoing research. The event features Dr. Bart Paulhamus, the Intelligent Systems Center Chief at Johns Hopkins APL, as a speaker.

IEEE Spectrum•
Japan can’t make robot wolves fast enough to counter the rise in bear attacks that have killed 13 humans this year — $4,000+ animatronic Monster Wolf features intense LEDs and makes loud noises

Japan can’t make robot wolves fast enough to counter the rise in bear attacks that have killed 13 humans this year — $4,000+ animatronic Monster Wolf features intense LEDs and makes loud noises

Japan is facing a surge in bear attacks, with 13 fatalities this year. To combat this, Ohta Seiki is producing the $4,000+ Monster Wolf, an animatronic robot with intense LEDs and loud noises to deter bears. The demand for these robot wolves has exceeded production capacity, with orders for 50 units this year alone. The robot is equipped with infrared sensors, various sounds, glowing eyes, and is powered by a car battery or solar panel. Ohta Seiki plans to expand its product line to include a handheld version and incorporate AI cameras for enhanced bear-repelling technology.

Tom's Hardware•
Maker packs an opinionated, googly-eyed AI chatbot into a mobile suitcase, powered by an Nvidia Jetson — entirely local machine entity runs Gemma 4 E4B and can respond in 200ms

Maker packs an opinionated, googly-eyed AI chatbot into a mobile suitcase, powered by an Nvidia Jetson — entirely local machine entity runs Gemma 4 E4B and can respond in 200ms

A Redditor has created a mobile suitcase robot named Sparky, powered by an Nvidia Jetson Orin NS Super 16GB and running Gemma 4 E4B entirely offline. Sparky boasts over 30 sensors for context awareness and can respond in just 200ms. The robot's processing power and sensors make it a versatile companion, even in off-grid situations. Sparky's natural responses are facilitated by speech-to-text and text-to-speech technologies, and it can be interacted with using various input methods. The project has garnered admiration for its creativity and technical prowess on Reddit.

Tom's Hardware•
MIT researchers revive 40-year-old triangular zipper concept now made possible by 3D printing, creates shape-shifting robots and deployable structures — 3D-printed 'Y-Zipper' turns floppy tentacles into rigid beams in seconds

MIT researchers revive 40-year-old triangular zipper concept now made possible by 3D printing, creates shape-shifting robots and deployable structures — 3D-printed 'Y-Zipper' turns floppy tentacles into rigid beams in seconds

MIT researchers have revived a 40-year-old triangular zipper concept using 3D printing, creating shape-shifting robots and deployable structures. The "Y-Zipper" can turn floppy tentacles into rigid beams in seconds, offering potential applications in adaptive robots, fast-deploying shelters, and medical devices. The design, originating in 1985, was made possible by advancements in 3D printing technology and computational design tools. The system allows for customizable behavior, forming various structures like rods, arches, coils, or screw-like shapes. The researchers demonstrated the technology in a robotic quadruped with legs that can adjust height and stiffness, showcasing its potential in robotics and deployable systems.

Tom's Hardware•
MIT Technology Review

The Download: AI malaise and babymaking tech

The article discusses the current state of AI technology and its impact on society, exploring the uncertainty and discomfort surrounding its widespread use. It also delves into how technology has transformed the process of babymaking, highlighting advancements in hormonal treatments, embryo culture, and genetic testing in IVF clinics. Additionally, the piece touches on the evolution of robots and AI learning, emphasizing the shift towards trial-and-error methods and real-world data. The article concludes with a roundup of tech news stories, including ICE's plans for smart glasses, the distortion of economic signals by AI, and a cyberattack on educational platforms.

MIT Technology Review•
DAIMON Robotics Wants to Give Robot Hands a Sense of Touch

DAIMON Robotics Wants to Give Robot Hands a Sense of Touch

DAIMON Robotics, led by Michael Yu Wang, has created a large omni-modal dataset to enhance robots' ability to manipulate objects with finesse. This dataset aims to speed up the deployment of versatile robotic models in real-world scenarios. By focusing on tactile sensing and embodied intelligence, DAIMON Robotics is paving the way for robots to have a sense of touch, improving their dexterity and functionality.

IEEE Spectrum•
3DPrint.com

3D Printing News Briefs, May 2, 2026: Soft Robots, Agricultural Waste, & More

The article discusses various 3D printing news briefs from May 2, 2026, including advancements in soft robots and the utilization of agricultural waste in 3D printing processes. The content seems to be inaccessible due to JavaScript and cookies settings.

3DPrint.com•
SoftBank plans robotics and AI firm in the US to build data centers — aims for $100 billion valuation and an IPO this year

SoftBank plans robotics and AI firm in the US to build data centers — aims for $100 billion valuation and an IPO this year

SoftBank's founder, Masayoshi Son, is launching Roze, a robotics and AI firm in the U.S. focused on building data centers, with plans for a $100 billion valuation and an IPO in 2026. The company has a history of significant AI investments, including partnerships with OpenAI and Oracle. Despite past losses, such as investments in WeWork, SoftBank has seen success with ventures like ARM Holdings and Alibaba. The company's heavy investment in AI has faced challenges, including a $50 billion loss in late 2025, but it continues to pursue opportunities in the tech sector.

Tom's Hardware•
This Roboticist-Turned-Teacher Built a Life-Size Replica of ENIAC

This Roboticist-Turned-Teacher Built a Life-Size Replica of ENIAC

Roboticist-turned-teacher Tom Burick has constructed a life-size replica of ENIAC to enhance the learning experience of his neurodivergent students by connecting them with history. Burick, who is dedicated to incorporating technology and history into his teaching, poses with his robots Otto, Vincent, and Maria, each with its unique role. This project aims to provide a hands-on approach to teaching computer history and robotics, offering students a tangible connection to the past. Burick's innovative approach showcases the intersection of robotics, education, and historical technology in a practical and engaging manner.

IEEE Spectrum•
Temple University Student Highlights IEEE Membership Perks

Temple University Student Highlights IEEE Membership Perks

A Temple University student, Jouri Ghazi, highlights the benefits of being an IEEE member, citing the development of technical and soft skills through the student branch. Ghazi, a research assistant at Temple University’s Computer Fusion Lab, emphasizes the value of IEEE membership in enhancing his career prospects. The article, featured in IEEE's member publication, The Institute, underscores the importance of joining IEEE for students interested in robotics, artificial intelligence, and other tech fields.

IEEE Spectrum•
Video Friday: Digit Learns to Dance—Virtually Overnight

Video Friday: Digit Learns to Dance—Virtually Overnight

A robot named Digit has quickly learned to dance without prior practice, showcasing impressive agility. This video is part of the "Video Friday" series featuring remarkable robot videos. The article is written by Evan Ackerman, IEEE Spectrum's robotics editor, and highlights Digit's newfound dance skills achieved virtually overnight. The robot's ability to learn and perform complex movements without extensive training demonstrates advancements in humanoid robot capabilities.

IEEE Spectrum•
AI’s Inevitable Robotics Integration and Use by Knuckleheads

AI’s Inevitable Robotics Integration and Use by Knuckleheads

The article discusses the integration of AI-based robots in guarding data centers due to the scarcity of high-value components like GPUs and storage devices. It mentions the use of robot dogs for security purposes, with companies like Boston Dynamics manufacturing quadrupeds capable of autonomous navigation and surveillance. The piece also touches on Mark Zuckerberg's interest in deploying robot dogs for data center security and his past ventures in emerging technologies like virtual reality. Additionally, it highlights Anduril Industries' development of autonomous killbots and the challenges faced by Meta in automating its facilities using AI.

ElectronicDesign•
AI Aims for Autonomous Wheelchair Navigation

AI Aims for Autonomous Wheelchair Navigation

Researchers are developing AI technology for autonomous wheelchair navigation, with features like laser scanners, a depth-imaging camera, odometry sensors, a screen, input device, emergency stop switch, and a computing unit. The smart wheelchair aims to track obstacles and navigate rooms independently. This advancement in assistive technology could greatly benefit individuals with disabilities, providing them with more autonomy and ease of movement.

IEEE Spectrum•
GTC 2026 Wrap-Up

GTC 2026 Wrap-Up

NVIDIA's GTC 2026 event showcased the Vera Rubin "AI factory in a box," a full-stack solution supporting advanced AI software like agentic AI in the cloud. CEO Jensen Huang's keynote featured Disney's Olaf robot, demonstrating AI capabilities. NVIDIA unveiled high-performance AI hardware like the Vera Rubin CPU/GPU, targeting space applications and future platforms like Feynman. NemoClaw, an AI platform, enhances security, while NVIDIA's collaboration with ASUS and NXP showcased advancements in AI and robotics. The event highlighted NVIDIA's leadership in AI hardware and software solutions.

ElectronicDesign•
Nvidia's Nemotron coalition brings eight AI labs together to build open frontier models

Nvidia's Nemotron coalition brings eight AI labs together to build open frontier models

Nvidia has introduced the Nemotron Coalition, comprising eight AI labs collaborating to develop open frontier models on NVIDIA DGX Cloud for the upcoming Nemotron 4 model family. The coalition's initial focus includes agentic AI, robotics, autonomous vehicles, and drug discovery. Notable members include Black Forest Labs, Cursor, and Thinking Machines Lab, founded by Mira Murati. Nvidia plans to open-source the models developed by the coalition. Additionally, new models like Nemotron 3 Ultra and Isaac GR00T N1.7 for robotics have been unveiled, with future releases like GR00T N2 expected by the end of 2026.

Tom's Hardware•
STMicro to deploy humanoid robots to its legacy fabs in Europe — over 100 humanoid robots to be used for routine and physically demanding tasks in fight for efficiency

STMicro to deploy humanoid robots to its legacy fabs in Europe — over 100 humanoid robots to be used for routine and physically demanding tasks in fight for efficiency

STMicroelectronics plans to deploy over 100 humanoid robots in its legacy fabs in Europe to handle routine and physically demanding tasks, aiming to improve efficiency. The company expects automation to enhance productivity while retraining workers for specialized roles. These robots will assist in activities like handling wafers and interacting with processing tools in older semiconductor fabrication plants. The move towards automation is seen as a practical solution to boost productivity in existing facilities that face challenges in competing with highly automated new fabs in China.

Tom's Hardware•
Video Friday: These Robots Were Born to Run

Video Friday: These Robots Were Born to Run

Robots designed for running take the spotlight in this week's video roundup. The featured robots showcase impressive mobility and agility, particularly in their legged locomotion. Northwestern University's research on legged robots highlights the constant movement these machines exhibit. The video selection offers a glimpse into the advancements in robotics, focusing on modular and quadruped robots. The weekly video series provides a captivating look at the latest developments in the field of robotics.

IEEE Spectrum•
Engineer receives $30,000 for exposing a vulnerability affecting 7,000 robot vacuum cleaners — tinkerer just wanted to drive his robot vacuum with a PS5 controller

Engineer receives $30,000 for exposing a vulnerability affecting 7,000 robot vacuum cleaners — tinkerer just wanted to drive his robot vacuum with a PS5 controller

DJI has awarded a software engineer, Sammy Azdoufal, $30,000 for discovering a critical vulnerability in its cloud backend that exposed 7,000 robot vacuum cleaners to potential access. Azdoufal's initial goal was to control his DJI Romo vacuum with a PS5 controller. By reverse-engineering DJI's cloud servers, he unintentionally gained access to live camera feeds, audio, and IP addresses of homes using DJI Romos in 24 countries. DJI has since patched the vulnerability, but questions remain about the reward and the speed of patching.

Tom's Hardware•
Video Friday: A Robot Hand With Artificial Muscles and Tendons

Video Friday: A Robot Hand With Artificial Muscles and Tendons

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a robot hand using 3D printing technology that features a combination of a rigid skeleton, soft joints, and tendon-driven fingers. This innovative design mimics the structure and movement of a human hand, enhancing the robot's dexterity and flexibility. The use of artificial muscles and tendons in the hand allows for more natural and precise movements, showcasing advancements in soft robotics technology.

IEEE Spectrum•
Video Friday: Robot Dogs Haul Produce From the Field

Video Friday: Robot Dogs Haul Produce From the Field

Quadruped robots are showcased in a video as they transport freshly harvested greens from the field in a demonstration by DEEP Robotics. The video, part of the weekly series "Video Friday," features these robots efficiently carrying produce. The robots are part of the farm-robotics sector and highlight advancements in robotics technology. The demonstration underscores the potential for robots to assist in agricultural tasks, showcasing their capabilities in real-world applications.

IEEE Spectrum•
MIT Technology Review

Vine-inspired robot fingers can reach out and grab someone

Engineers at MIT and Stanford University have developed a robotic gripper inspired by vines that can gently lift various objects, including people. The gripper consists of pressurized tubes that inflate and coil around objects before lifting them. The design, combining "open loop" and "closed loop" actions, can be applied to tasks like agricultural harvesting, eldercare, and heavy industry operations. The researchers aim to automate tasks such as sorting warehouse products and unloading cargo using this innovative technology.

MIT Technology Review•
MIT Technology Review

Just pull a string to turn these tile patterns into useful 3D structures

MIT researchers have developed a method inspired by kirigami that allows flat panels to transform into 3D structures with a single pull of a string. This technique could be used to create foldable bike helmets, medical devices, emergency shelters, and more without the need for tools. The algorithm they created finds the optimal path for the string to actuate the structure efficiently and reversibly. The method could lead to more efficient storage and transportation of complex 3D structures, with potential applications in medical devices, robots, and even space habitats. The researchers aim to explore designs across various sizes and develop self-deploying mechanisms for these structures in the future.

MIT Technology Review•
User accidentally gains control of over 6,700 robot vacuums while tinkering with their own device to enable control with a PlayStation controller — security flaw reveals floor plans and live video feeds

User accidentally gains control of over 6,700 robot vacuums while tinkering with their own device to enable control with a PlayStation controller — security flaw reveals floor plans and live video feeds

A security flaw inadvertently exposed over 6,700 DJI Romo robot vacuums to unauthorized access when a user created an app to control their device with a PlayStation controller. The flaw allowed access to floor plans, live camera feeds, and remote control of affected devices worldwide. The issue was discovered by AI strategist Sammy Adoufal, who reverse-engineered the communication protocol. DJI resolved the problem through updates, but Adoufal highlighted remaining concerns, including video feed access without a security PIN. This incident underscores the risks of IoT devices and data mishandling, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.

Tom's Hardware•
NASA Let AI Drive the Perseverance Rover

NASA Let AI Drive the Perseverance Rover

NASA allowed AI to autonomously drive the Perseverance Rover for 456 meters over two days without human intervention. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) developed an animation showing the rover's path based on data collected during this AI-driven driving session. This marks a significant advancement in using artificial intelligence for navigation on Mars.

IEEE Spectrum•
Harvard researchers develop novel 3D printing method for soft robotics — rotational multi-material method creates muscle-like structures that can be programmed to twist, lift, or bend

Harvard researchers develop novel 3D printing method for soft robotics — rotational multi-material method creates muscle-like structures that can be programmed to twist, lift, or bend

Harvard researchers have developed a new 3D printing method for soft robotics, allowing for the creation of muscle-like structures that can twist, lift, or bend. The rotational multi-material method combines various materials through a single rotating nozzle to print precise structures. The printed structures, made of durable polyurethane and a gel-like polymer, can be manipulated to act as muscles by pressurizing them with air or fluid. This breakthrough in 3D printing could streamline the production of soft robots by enabling complex, malleable structures to be printed in one go with built-in motion logic. The researchers' work has been published in the Advanced Materials journal and holds the potential to revolutionize the robotics field.

Tom's Hardware•
3DPrint.com

3D Printing News Briefs, February 7, 2026: Generative AI, USVs, Microgravity, & More

The article discusses various tech news updates for February 7, 2026, including advancements in generative AI, Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), and experiments in microgravity. It covers a range of topics related to 3D printing and emerging technologies.

3DPrint.com•
Tesla's robotics ambitions rest on the knife-edge of US-China trade relations due to its supply chain — the majority of critical materials and suppliers are located in China

Tesla's robotics ambitions rest on the knife-edge of US-China trade relations due to its supply chain — the majority of critical materials and suppliers are located in China

Tesla's shift towards robotics and AI is heavily reliant on its supply chain, with many critical materials and suppliers located in China. The US-China trade relations play a crucial role in Tesla's ambitions, as China dominates the global supply of key materials needed for next-generation robotics. China's control over the supply chain puts Tesla at risk, as demonstrated by a Chinese block on exporting rare-earth magnets impacting the production of the Tesla Optimus robot. The US government is aware of the dependency on Chinese materials and is working on developing a stockpile to mitigate risks. However, China's advancements in humanoid robotics and its control over key technologies and materials give it a significant advantage over Western companies like Tesla.

Tom's Hardware•
Cornell research shows that underwater 3D printing can be used to build or repair ocean structures in place — DARPA-funded project aims to make underwater construction faster, cheaper, and safer

Cornell research shows that underwater 3D printing can be used to build or repair ocean structures in place — DARPA-funded project aims to make underwater construction faster, cheaper, and safer

Cornell University researchers have developed a method for underwater 3D printing to construct or repair ocean structures, aiming to revolutionize underwater construction by making it faster, cheaper, and safer. The project, funded by DARPA, involves using robot-based 3D printers and a specialized concrete mix made mostly from seafloor sediment. Overcoming challenges like washout, where cement washes away underwater, the team optimized material viscosity and pumpability. They also incorporated seafloor sediment into the concrete mix to reduce environmental impact. The team will showcase their technology in a DARPA competition in March to demonstrate its effectiveness in underwater construction.

Tom's Hardware•
Scientists share design so you can make your own 3D-printable 'eFlesh' for robots — affordable, easy to produce, and highly-tactile robot sensor grips can be printed at home

Scientists share design so you can make your own 3D-printable 'eFlesh' for robots — affordable, easy to produce, and highly-tactile robot sensor grips can be printed at home

Scientists at New York University have developed 3D-printable 'eFlesh' for robot sensor grips, enabling robots to interact with various objects in unstructured environments. They have shared the design for free, allowing anyone to create their own highly-tactile sensor grips using a 3D printer, magnets, a CAD model, and a magnetometer circuit board. The eFlesh sensors offer precise contact localization and force prediction, enhancing robotic manipulation capabilities. The open-source design includes STL files and software code, making this technology accessible and affordable for robotics enthusiasts. The eFlesh technology incorporates learning-based slip detection models and visuotactile control policies, improving manipulation performance significantly.

Tom's Hardware•
Ode to Very Small Devices

Ode to Very Small Devices

Paul Jones, a renowned figure in computer science, has penned a poem celebrating very small devices, blending the worlds of poetry and robotics. Jones, honored in the NC State Computer Science Hall of Fame, showcases his unique perspective on technology through verse. The poem, featured in the February 2026 issue of Robotics Magazine, highlights the intersection of creativity and innovation in the tech world.

IEEE Spectrum•
3DPrint.com

Multi-Axis Robots Push Silicone 3D Printing Further

The article discusses how multi-axis robots are advancing silicone 3D printing technology. These robots are capable of intricate movements that enable more complex and precise 3D printing of silicone materials. The use of multi-axis robots in 3D printing allows for greater flexibility and customization in the manufacturing process. This advancement could have significant implications for industries such as healthcare, where silicone is commonly used in medical devices and prosthetics. The technology is still in the early stages, but it shows promise for revolutionizing silicone 3D printing capabilities.

3DPrint.com•
American factory worker Robert Williams became the first human to be killed by a robot on this day in 1979 — man crushed by a robot’s mechanical arm at the Ford plant in Flat Rock

American factory worker Robert Williams became the first human to be killed by a robot on this day in 1979 — man crushed by a robot’s mechanical arm at the Ford plant in Flat Rock

In 1979, Robert Williams became the first human killed by a robot when a mechanical arm at the Ford plant in Flat Rock crushed him. The incident highlighted the dangers of human-robot interactions in factory settings. Williams' family received a $10 million compensation after a lengthy court case. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with advancing robotics technology.

Tom's Hardware•
Video Friday: Humans and Robots Team Up in Battlefield Triage

Video Friday: Humans and Robots Team Up in Battlefield Triage

A quadruped robot showcased in a video is aiding medics in identifying critical injuries during battlefield triage. The collaboration between humans and robots in this context is highlighted, emphasizing the potential for advanced technology to enhance medical care in challenging environments. The video is part of a series featuring innovative robot applications, with a focus on DARPA's involvement in advancing human-robot interaction.

IEEE Spectrum•
Robotics and world models are AI's next frontier, and China is already ahead of the West — research shows almost 13,000 robots deployed in 2025 alone

Robotics and world models are AI's next frontier, and China is already ahead of the West — research shows almost 13,000 robots deployed in 2025 alone

Chinese companies are leading the way in humanoid robotics, with around 13,000 robots deployed in 2025, compared to Western counterparts. The market is predicted to grow significantly, with Chinese firms dominating sales. World models, neural network AIs for the physical world, are the next frontier in AI development. While China's manufacturing capabilities give it an edge, Western companies are urged to step up to avoid falling behind. The industry faces challenges with talent diversification and consolidation efforts in China, while American innovation and partnerships with global allies could still play a crucial role in shaping the future of robotics.

Tom's Hardware•
MIT Technology Review

CES showed me why Chinese tech companies feel so optimistic

Chinese tech companies showcased their dominance in AI and robotics at CES 2026, with nearly a quarter of all exhibitors being Chinese. The focus was on AI gadgets, household electronics, and humanoid robots, demonstrating China's manufacturing advantage and innovation in consumer electronics. Chinese companies are not only selling gadgets but also working on various layers of the tech stack, including frameworks, tooling, and IoT enablement. The headline innovations at CES were in cloud platforms and enterprise deployments, highlighting China's emphasis on building and selling tech globally. The overall mood among Chinese tech attendees was one of cautious optimism, with a shift towards building in China and selling to the world.

MIT Technology Review•
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says robots could be 'AI immigrants' that can address labor shortages — can 'do the type of work that maybe we decided not to do anymore'

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says robots could be 'AI immigrants' that can address labor shortages — can 'do the type of work that maybe we decided not to do anymore'

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang referred to AI-controlled robots as "AI immigrants" at CES 2026, suggesting they could address labor shortages by performing tasks that people may not want to do. Huang emphasized that robots could create more jobs and help drive the economy forward. He also mentioned advancements in robotics technology, including the development of robots with human-level skills like locomotion and fine motor skills. While some may view this as oversimplifying a complex issue, Huang's remarks highlight the potential impact of AI on the workforce and the need for continued technological innovation.

Tom's Hardware•
Video Friday: Watch Scuttle Evolve

Video Friday: Watch Scuttle Evolve

The article discusses the challenges of transitioning a robot from a research project to a commercial product, using the example of Scuttle, a quadruped robot. The author, Evan Ackerman, highlights the complexities involved in this process. The video showcases Scuttle's evolution and development as it moves towards commercialization. The article emphasizes the difficulties faced by robotics companies in bringing innovative robots to market successfully.

IEEE Spectrum•
11 Amazing Engineering Events in 2026

11 Amazing Engineering Events in 2026

In 2026, several remarkable engineering events are set to unfold, including the introduction of robo-umps in sports and the development of a supercomputer as large as a city. These advancements promise to revolutionize various industries and push the boundaries of technological innovation. Stay tuned for these exciting engineering milestones that are expected to shape the future of technology in the coming year.

IEEE Spectrum•
World’s smallest autonomous robots are 'smaller than a grain of salt,' cost one penny apiece — researchers expect new micron-scale fully-programmable robots to be used in medicine, microscale manufacturing, and other areas

World’s smallest autonomous robots are 'smaller than a grain of salt,' cost one penny apiece — researchers expect new micron-scale fully-programmable robots to be used in medicine, microscale manufacturing, and other areas

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan have developed fully programmable, autonomous robots that are smaller than a grain of salt and cost only a penny each to manufacture. These nanoscale robots are expected to be used in medicine, microscale manufacturing, and other areas. The robots are designed to move using ion propulsion, generating an electric field to swim without the need for moving parts. They are powered by solar cells and communicate using light pulses and a unique waggle dance. Despite their tiny size, these robots are highly efficient and durable, with an autonomous operational life measured in months.

Tom's Hardware•
Video Friday: Holiday Robot Helpers Send Season’s Greetings

Video Friday: Holiday Robot Helpers Send Season’s Greetings

Robotic friends from Boston Dynamics are spreading holiday cheer in a video compilation. The video features humanoid robots and dancing robots, showcasing their festive spirit. The selection of robot videos aims to delight tech enthusiasts during the holiday season. The video highlights the capabilities and advancements in robotics, offering a glimpse into the future of robotic technology.

IEEE Spectrum•
Robots fashioned from dead lobster exoskeletons have awesome strength, light weight, and flexibility — necrobotics advance mixes sustainable food waste with synthetic components

Robots fashioned from dead lobster exoskeletons have awesome strength, light weight, and flexibility — necrobotics advance mixes sustainable food waste with synthetic components

Swiss scientists have developed robots using dead lobster exoskeletons, showcasing their strength, lightweight, and flexibility in various robotic applications. This innovative approach, known as necrobotics, combines sustainable food waste with synthetic components to create bio-hybrid robotics. By repurposing crustacean shells from food production waste, the researchers demonstrate a sustainable design process that recycles materials for new tasks. The use of chitin, a natural biopolymer found in crustaceans, contributes to the strength, flexibility, and biodegradability of these robotic exoskeletons. Future research aims to enhance these necrobotic systems with advanced synthetic augmentation mechanisms for improved performance.

Tom's Hardware•
The Top 6 Biomedical Stories of 2025

The Top 6 Biomedical Stories of 2025

The article highlights the top 6 biomedical stories of 2025, including innovative applications of graphene tattoos, Wi-Fi, and ultrasound technology. The stories cover a range of advancements in areas such as surgical robots, medical devices, and brain implants. The use of cutting-edge technologies like lasers and graphene tattoos is showcased in these biomedical breakthroughs. The article provides insights into the latest developments in the field of biomedical research and their potential impact on healthcare.

IEEE Spectrum•
Nvidia-led NitroGen is a generalist video gaming AI that can play any title — research also has big implications for robotics

Nvidia-led NitroGen is a generalist video gaming AI that can play any title — research also has big implications for robotics

Researchers from Nvidia, Stanford, Caltech, and other institutions have developed NitroGen, an open-source AI model trained to play over 1000 video games. The implications extend beyond gaming to robotics and simulations, aiming to create generally capable agents for unknown environments. NitroGen, based on the GROOT N1.5 architecture, shows promise in diverse game genres and procedural worlds, with a 52% improvement in task success rates over models trained from scratch. The research is open-source, inviting exploration and modifications for those interested in gaming, robotics, and large language models (LLMs).

Tom's Hardware•
iRobot’s Cofounder Weighs In on Company’s Bankruptcy

iRobot’s Cofounder Weighs In on Company’s Bankruptcy

iRobot's co-founder, Colin Angle, attributes the company's bankruptcy to a failed acquisition by Amazon. Despite over a decade of success as the most popular robot brand, iRobot was unable to survive its financial challenges.

IEEE Spectrum•
Roomba maker iRobot announces bankruptcy — brand will live on under ownership of former supplier

Roomba maker iRobot announces bankruptcy — brand will live on under ownership of former supplier

iRobot, the company behind Roomba, has declared bankruptcy and been acquired by its former supplier, Picea Group, after facing challenges in the robot vacuum market. The decline in iRobot's market share was attributed to increased competition from Chinese robotics companies offering more innovative designs at lower prices. Failed acquisition attempts by Amazon and trade issues further contributed to iRobot's downfall. Despite the bankruptcy, the Roomba brand is expected to continue under Picea Group's ownership alongside other well-known houseware brands.

Tom's Hardware•
Roomba maker iRobot swept into bankruptcy

Roomba maker iRobot swept into bankruptcy

Roomba maker iRobot has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will be acquired by its Chinese supplier, Picea Robotics, due to competition from cheaper rivals. The company's shares traded at $4, significantly lower than the $52 per share offered by Amazon in a failed acquisition attempt two years ago. iRobot's CEO stated that the restructuring will secure the company's future and ensure continuity for customers and partners. Founded in 1990, iRobot has been a pioneer in bringing robotics into homes, selling over 40 million devices, including the popular Roomba vacuum cleaner.

Ars Technica•

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