Robotics & Automation News

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PlusAI targets 2027 launch for factory-built autonomous trucks as readiness metrics advance

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PlusAI says it is on track to launch factory-built commercial autonomous trucks in 2027, as the company reported progress across a set of internal readiness metrics tied to safety validation and operational performance.

In an update issued January 8, PlusAI said its Safety Case Readiness (SCR) reached 90.1 percent through the second half of 2025, while Autonomous Miles Percentage (AMP) rose to 99.2 percent and Remote Assistance Free Trips (RAFT) increased to 79.0 percent. The company said these figures represent steady improvement compared with metrics disclosed in mid-2025.

“This progress comes as PlusAI works towards its targeted commercial launch in 2027,” the company said in a press release, adding that it is also planning to become publicly listed via a business combination with Churchill Capital Corp IX. [Read more…] about PlusAI targets 2027 launch for factory-built autonomous trucks as readiness metrics advance

AMRs vs AGVs: A 2026-2030 trend analysis for mobile automation

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An in-depth, economics-driven analysis of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), exploring real operational trade-offs, cost structures, software orchestration, and hybrid deployment strategies across warehouses and manufacturing through 2030. This 44-page PDF report helps operations leaders, integrators, and investors make fact-based decisions – not just follow trends.

What the report covers

  • The true cost structure of AMRs vs AGVs, including CapEx, OpEx, and total cost of ownership
  • Why flexibility introduces an “interaction tax” as fleets scale
  • The role of software orchestration, edge computing, and 5G in high-density deployments
  • Where AGVs continue to outperform, particularly in heavy-duty and deterministic workflows
  • How hybrid environments are becoming the default in large warehouses and manufacturing sites
  • Market evolution, vendor positioning, and long-term platform implications
  • A practical framework for aligning technology choice with operational reality

Who this report is for

  • Warehouse and manufacturing operators evaluating mobile automation investments
  • Automation engineers and systems integrators
  • Operations and supply-chain leaders planning multi-year infrastructure upgrades
  • Investors and analysts seeking a grounded view of the mobile robotics market

What makes this analysis different

This report avoids hype, vendor promotion, and simplistic comparisons. Instead, it treats mobile robots as economic systems, where throughput, predictability, integration effort, and software maturity matter as much as raw speed or autonomy.

The result is a decision-focused analysis designed to help readers choose systems that fit their workflows – not narratives.

Publisher: Robotics & Automation News
Format: PDF
Pages: 44
Delivery: Instant Download
Language: American English
Release year: 2026

The Hidden Energy Challenges Behind Autonomous and Automated Operations

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Industries across manufacturing, logistics, and digital services are continuing to adopt automation and autonomous systems as part of day-to-day operations.

These technologies now sit at the core of many workflows, supporting tasks that once required constant human oversight. While much attention focuses on efficiency and reliability, far less discussion centres on the energy demands that underpin these systems.

Automation does not operate in isolation. Every automated process depends on a continuous supply of electricity, often at a scale that organisations did not previously require. As automation expands, energy use increases in parallel, placing new pressure on infrastructure, budgets, and long-term planning. [Read more…] about The Hidden Energy Challenges Behind Autonomous and Automated Operations

Opinion: The human advantage in the age of automation – a 2026 blueprint for manufacturing and aerospace


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By Dr Doug Milburn, chairman of the Protocase companies

As we approach 2026, manufacturing, aerospace, and advanced technology are entering a period of profound transformation. Emerging technologies – particularly AI, automation, and robotics – are reshaping how work is done, how products are made, and how innovation occurs.

The organizations that will thrive are those that treat technology as a partner rather than a replacement for human talent, integrating operational excellence with workforce development and strategic foresight. [Read more…] about Opinion: The human advantage in the age of automation – a 2026 blueprint for manufacturing and aerospace


Inbolt launches ‘human-like bin picking solution’ powered by on-arm AI vision

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Inbolt, a provider of real-time vision-guidance systems for robots, has launched its next-generation bin picking solution designed to bring “human-like adaptability to industrial robotics”.

Built for fully unstructured environments, this breakthrough enables robots to identify, grasp, and place parts with unmatched flexibility and accuracy, even when objects are randomly positioned or partially hidden. [Read more…] about Inbolt launches ‘human-like bin picking solution’ powered by on-arm AI vision

Schaeffler unveils innovative planetary gear actuator for humanoid robots

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For the first time, Schaeffler is presenting a planetary gear actuator developed specifically for humanoid robots at a leading global trade fair.

Actuators transmit torque with high precision and minimal compliance and are essential for enabling humanoid robots to move accurately and efficiently. On average, 25 to 30 actuators are required in total for joints such as the shoulders, knees, and hips.

While conventional actuators often offer limited or no back-drive-ability – that is, the ability to move the drive in reverse – Schaeffler’s planetary gear actuator enables smooth back-driving and high precision thanks to its innovative design. [Read more…] about Schaeffler unveils innovative planetary gear actuator for humanoid robots

Interview with Kardome CEO: Teaching robots to hear like humans

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For much of the past decade, progress in robotics and autonomous systems has been framed largely through vision. Cameras, LiDAR, and computer vision algorithms have dominated discussions around perception, mapping, and situational awareness.

Sound, by contrast, has often been treated as a secondary input – useful for wake words and basic commands, but rarely central to machine intelligence.

Yet hearing is arguably one of the most fundamental senses for understanding the world, particularly when it comes to language and interaction. Humans begin responding to sound before birth, learning rhythm, tone, and voice long before their eyes ever open. [Read more…] about Interview with Kardome CEO: Teaching robots to hear like humans

Why Precision Components are the Unsung Heroes of the Autonomous Revolution

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Autonomous technology is rapidly transforming the world around us. Self-driving cars navigate bustling streets, drones deliver packages with remarkable accuracy, and robotic systems perform tasks humans once thought impossible.

While AI and software often take center stage, there’s another critical element quietly making these innovations possible: precision components.

These components may seem small or ordinary, but they are the backbone of every autonomous system. Engineers rely on CNC machining services to produce these parts with exacting tolerances. [Read more…] about Why Precision Components are the Unsung Heroes of the Autonomous Revolution

What is 3D Annotation Services?

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Annotation is an important aspect of developing various fields today, including computer vision, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Although there are numerous ways to annotate data, one of the most innovative ways is 3D annotation.

This method provides a greater level of accuracy and thoroughness in labelling/tagging than is possible with traditional 2D annotations on still images or videos.

Essentially, 3D annotation is the ability to label everything in a 3D environment. In this article, we explore what 3D annotation services are and examine the different types of 3D annotation used across industries today. [Read more…] about What is 3D Annotation Services?

Key Factors to Consider Before Adding Smart-Contract Assets to Your Portfolio

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Smart-contract platforms like Ethereum have transformed blockchain from simple transactions to programmable finance, powering DeFi, NFTs, and decentralized apps.

Adding assets like ETH to your portfolio offers exposure to this innovation, and for those looking to buy Ethereum, this means direct access to scalability upgrades and real-world adoption.

In 2025’s evolving digital economy, these assets promise growth through scalability upgrades and real-world adoption. But volatility remains high, with 5-10% swings common. [Read more…] about Key Factors to Consider Before Adding Smart-Contract Assets to Your Portfolio