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SVT Robotics launches ‘Softbot Intelligence’ to power AI with real-time automation data

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SVT Robotics, a developer of interoperability software, has launched its “Softbot Intelligence” platform, a new data capability that transforms how organizations see and leverage performance data across live automation environments.

Built on the Softbot Platform, Softbot Intelligence captures and contextualizes real-time execution data as it flows through integrated technologies, creating the high-fidelity data backbone required for reliable, AI-driven outcomes.

As the Softbot Platform orchestrates execution events across robotics, software, and enterprise systems, Softbot Intelligence continuously captures and correlates these events with millisecond-level precision – revealing relationships, dependencies, and cause-and-effect between technologies. [Read more…] about SVT Robotics launches ‘Softbot Intelligence’ to power AI with real-time automation data

What makes robots feel alive? Human-robot interaction expert Sarah Sebo explains

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As robots become more expressive and socially capable, the line between machines and living characters is starting to blur. From Disney’s lifelike Olaf robot (main image) to interactive droids inspired by Star Wars, recent developments highlight how far robotics has come in replicating human-like behavior and emotion.

But what actually makes a robot feel “alive” – and why do some machines feel natural while others fall into the so-called “uncanny valley”?

To explore these questions, Robotics & Automation News spoke with Sarah Sebo, assistant professor of computer science at the University of Chicago, whose research focuses on human-robot interaction and the social, cultural and technological impact of robots in everyday environments. [Read more…] about What makes robots feel alive? Human-robot interaction expert Sarah Sebo explains

Crack Detection in Stainless Steel Tanks Using Robotic Technology

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Ensuring the structural integrity of stainless steel vessels is a critical requirement in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals or food processing.

Even minor cracks in weld seams, stress zones, or highly loaded components can compromise operational safety, product quality, and regulatory compliance.

In recent years, robotic inspection technology has emerged as an increasingly effective method for detecting cracks and material defects in industrial tanks and process vessels while reducing inspection time and human risk. [Read more…] about Crack Detection in Stainless Steel Tanks Using Robotic Technology

Lyreco automates French logistics hub with Exotec Skypod robots in €25 million upgrade

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Lyreco, a global company providing workplace products and services, has announced the completion of a modernisation programme at its logistics centre in Villaines-la-Juhel (Mayenne, northwestern France).

The Villaines-la-Juhel site is one of the group’s most strategic logistics hubs and is responsible for 60 percent of the 50,000 parcels shipped daily by Lyreco in France.

As part of the modernisation of the site, which began in 2021, Lyreco has built a new 3,000 m² facility and integrated an advanced robotic solution developed by Exotec, a French pioneer in warehouse automation. [Read more…] about Lyreco automates French logistics hub with Exotec Skypod robots in €25 million upgrade

PickNik releases MoveIt Pro 9 to improve AI-driven robotics in variable environments

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PickNik has released version 9 of its robotics development software MoveIt Pro, introducing new capabilities aimed at improving how robots operate in complex, real-world environments such as cleaning, sanitation and vehicle washing.

The update focuses on what the company describes as “scan-and-plan” workflows – a technique that allows robots to perceive their surroundings in real time and generate motion paths dynamically, rather than relying on fixed, pre-programmed instructions.

Industrial robots have traditionally performed best in structured environments, such as manufacturing lines, where tasks are repetitive and predictable. However, applications like restroom cleaning or food plant sanitation present a different challenge, requiring robots to adapt to changing layouts, irregular surfaces and variable geometries. [Read more…] about PickNik releases MoveIt Pro 9 to improve AI-driven robotics in variable environments

Exol launches US robotic fulfillment network with ‘fulfillment-as-a-service’ model

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Exol (formerly GreenBox Logistics) has launched its first US “physical AI” fulfillment facilities, introducing what the company describes as a new logistics model designed to expand access to large-scale warehouse automation.

The company says it plans to build a nationwide network of six automated sites totaling around six million square feet, aimed at supporting retail, wholesale and consumer goods companies. The first facility in Atlanta is now operational, while additional locations are planned in California, Texas, New Jersey and Illinois over the next year.

The concept behind Exol’s offering – described as “robotic fulfillment-as-a-service” – is to provide companies with access to automated warehouse infrastructure without requiring them to invest in their own systems. [Read more…] about Exol launches US robotic fulfillment network with ‘fulfillment-as-a-service’ model

DoorDash and Wing expand drone delivery partnership to Metro Atlanta

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DoorDash, a local commerce platform specializing in home food delivery, and Wing, a residential drone delivery company, have announced the expansion of their partnership to metro Atlanta.

The launch introduces a new way for metro Atlanta consumers to order from their favorite local merchants, expanding delivery options across the platform.

Eligible DoorDash consumers near Tanger Outlets Locust Grove can order from a selection of local and national restaurants and choose to have their items delivered by drone in as little as 20 minutes. [Read more…] about DoorDash and Wing expand drone delivery partnership to Metro Atlanta

Plus One Robotics hits 2 billion picks as warehouse automation scales under labor pressure

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Plus One Robotics, a specialist in AI-powered robotic vision for material handling, says it has “surpassed 2 billion successful picks across its global fleet of parcel induction and depalletization robots”.

The milestone coincides with the company’s recent 10th anniversary, marking a decade of advancing intelligent automation for the world’s leading logistics and e-commerce operators.

Doubling its pick count in just two years, Plus One continues to demonstrate that AI-powered robotics can deliver measurable, repeatable results at scale. What began as a vision to combine artificial intelligence with practical warehouse applications has evolved into a proven platform driving speed, accuracy and resilience across modern supply chains. [Read more…] about Plus One Robotics hits 2 billion picks as warehouse automation scales under labor pressure

Most manufacturers adopting automation, but few see real results, report finds

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A new report from Eclipse Automation suggests that while factory automation is now widespread across North America, only a small proportion of manufacturers are achieving meaningful outcomes from their investments.

The study, based on a survey of more than 600 executives across the automotive, medical device, and consumer-industrial sectors, found that although up to 70 percent of US manufacturers and 60 percent of Canadian firms report using some form of automation, levels of maturity and performance vary significantly.

The findings point to a growing divide between companies that are successfully translating automation into measurable returns and those that are struggling to move beyond early-stage deployments. [Read more…] about Most manufacturers adopting automation, but few see real results, report finds

Qualcomm joins MassRobotics to support startup ecosystem and robotics development

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MassRobotics has announced that Qualcomm Technologies has joined its organization as a sponsor, expanding the network of companies supporting robotics startups within its ecosystem.

The addition of Qualcomm Technologies is expected to provide new technical resources and collaboration opportunities for startups working within the MassRobotics community, which focuses on accelerating the development and commercialization of robotics technologies.

The move comes as Qualcomm Technologies continues to expand its presence in robotics and edge AI. The company recently introduced the Qualcomm Dragonwing Robotics Hub, a developer-focused platform within the Arduino Project Hub that provides sample applications and a shared environment for building and scaling robotics systems. [Read more…] about Qualcomm joins MassRobotics to support startup ecosystem and robotics development