Robotics is making big news around the globe. Here are some key points about the newest advancements, especially in humanoid robots and funding for robot companies.

Humanoid Robot Performances

• Chinese Stars: Companies like Unitree, Galbot, Noetix, and MagicLab have created incredible humanoid robots.
• Spring Festival Gala: These robots showcased their skills with amazing kung fu moves and choreographed dances during China’s largest TV event.
• Production Leaders: Last year, China made about 90% of the world’s humanoid robots, totaling around 13,000.
• Future Sales: It’s expected that sales of humanoid robots will double to 28,000 by 2026.

Major Funding Wins

• Big Investments: Apptronik raised an impressive $520 million to continue developing its Apollo humanoid robot, bringing its total funding close to $1 billion. This funding comes from major companies like Google and Mercedes-Benz.
• Waabi’s Success: Waabi has secured a total of $1 billion, including $750 million in a recent funding round. They are working with Uber to develop self-driving trucks and over 25,000 robot taxis.

Advances in AI and Soft Robotics

• MIT Innovations: Researchers at MIT created a smart AI system that helps soft robotic arms learn how to do tasks and adapt when things go wrong. This system has reduced tracking errors by 44-55% and keeps the robot’s shape 92% accurate, even if some parts fail.
• NVIDIA’s Contributions: NVIDIA has introduced open AI models for humanoid control, called Cosmos Reason 2. These models are being used by partner companies like Franka and NEURA Robotics.

These breakthroughs show just how fast robotics technology is advancing and how much potential it has for the future!