In new video of Atlas from Boston Dynamics, the humanoid robot is shown performing work-like tasks for the first time: including a new set of grippers, autonomous behaviors, and the ability to self-correct errors.
Nvidia Finally Reveals The Future Of AI In 2025…
AI agents and AI reasoning to perform innumerable tasks including physical, through robots.
NVIDIA NeMo is a platform for building, customizing, and deploying generative AI models.
Atlas robot shows off full autonomy in latest Boston Dynamics demo
Boston Dynamics released a new video Wednesday, Oct. 30, showcasing the latest capabilities of its humanoid robot, Atlas, which now operates without human oversight. In a simulated industrial environment, Atlas autonomously performs tasks such as moving engine parts between containers and sequencing dollies, using advanced machine learning and sensor technology to detect, grasp and position items. Unlike many robotics demonstrations, Atlas operates without pre-programmed steps or real-time human control. Boston Dynamics says the robot can dynamically respond to changes in its environment, adjusting its approach if, for example, a part doesn’t fit as expected. This adaptability is powered by a combination of camera-based sensors, force sensors and advanced software, enabling Atlas to detect and refine its actions in real time. This level of autonomy contrasts with Tesla’s Optimus robot, which has shown reliance on remote human operators for guidance. In October, Boston Dynamics announced a partnership with the Toyota Research Institute (TRI) to further enhance Atlas’ capabilities with TRI’s behavior models, enabling the robot to quickly adapt to complex tasks required in factory settings. These models, similar to large language models, allow Atlas to learn physical tasks with reduced training needs and improved durability on the job. The newest model of Atlas is fully electric, a shift from its previous hydraulic system, allowing for smoother and more precise movements. Supported by Hyundai, Boston Dynamics sees this collaboration with TRI as a significant step toward developing flexible, humanoid robots capable of performing everyday industrial tasks. CEO Robert Playter described the initiative as focused on creating robots that can handle a wide range of tasks in manufacturing and beyond. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has predicted that by 2040, the global market will include at least 10 billion humanoid robots priced between $20,000 and $25,000. While Atlas marks a leap forward, experts say its long-term success depends on achieving affordability, durability, and scalability to make widespread industrial applications feasible.
Meet the world’s ‘most advanced’ humanoid robot
Standing in the office of Will Jackson, founder of Engineered Arts, is Ameca, a robot that can talk and move like a human.
It is the latest and most advanced iteration of two-decades of robot development from Engineered Arts, a humanoid manufacturer based in Cornwall, England.
Ameca is an advanced piece of machinery, designed to interact with humans for entertainment and social purposes.
Its head alone contains 27 motors that help it replicate human facial movements. It has cameras in each of the eyes to allow Ameca to “see” the world around it.
The robot also has the ability to understand and respond to questions posed by humans. How? Ameca can run large artificial intelligence models, the kind that underpin ChatGPT. Currently, Engineered Arts is trialing GPT 4, the latest AI model from OpenAI.
Ameca can also tell jokes, respond in voices of celebrities or famous TV characters, and even dance. She even addressed concerns about whether robots pose a threat to humanity.
The robot cannot yet walk, but Engineered Arts is working on technology to allow Ameca to do so.
Watch CNBC Tech: The Edge’s visit to Engineered Arts’ headquarters in Falmouth, U.K., and even a short interview with Ameca, in the video above.
On the Front Lines With Ukraine’s Killer Drone Pilot | WSJ
“Darwin” is one of Ukraine’s deadliest drone pilots in its war against Russia. But the 20-year-old must contend with his own personal evolution after hundreds of successful missions in a modern survival of the fittest.
Ukraine leverages robotic dogs for reconnaissance, combat
Robotic dogs have entered the battlefield in Ukraine, adding a futuristic element to the ongoing conflict with Russia. Known as “robo-fidos,” these machines, developed by the British company Brit Alliance, are equipped with thermal imaging cameras and remote-sensing technology.
Ukraine has deployed more than 30 of these robotic units, referred to as BAD2, as part of its efforts to integrate advanced technology into its military operations.
The dogs can move at speeds of up to 9 mph for five hours and carry more than 15 pounds of equipment or ammunition. Initially designed for reconnaissance and logistical support, Ukrainian commanders have indicated they may upgrade the units to execute “kamikaze” attacks on Russian soldiers and vehicles.
Although the BAD2 units are currently used for non-offensive roles, it’s not far-fetched to imagine the Ukrainians taking a more aggressive approach. Ukraine has already demonstrated its ability to innovate, using drones equipped with flamethrowers to target Russian positions.
A similar robotic dog model, the Thermonator, is developed by Ohio-based company Throwflame. Priced at around $10,000, the Thermonator is equipped with a flamethrower and designed for industrial tasks like wildfire control and snow removal. While developed by different companies for separate purposes, the potential for weaponization draws a clear parallel between the two robots.
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, these robotic dogs could play a larger role, both in logistical support and direct combat. Ukraine’s ability to adapt technology for the battlefield has proven vital, and these machines may soon be another tool in its expanding tech-driven warfare strategy.
Tesla’s new Actually Smart Summon Update is incredible.
Smart Summon is designed to allow you to move Model Y to your location (using your phone’s GPS as a target destination) or to a location of your choice.
This Next Billion-Dollar Startup Wants To Save American Manufacturing
Hadrian founder and CEO Chris Power has raised $180 million to manufacture metal parts at warp speeds at his California factory. Now he wants to build dozens more across the country to make more parts better, faster and cheaper. Power’s vision is somewhat different from other startups building tech to make other companies’ warehouses more efficient: He’s developed proprietary software to run Hadrian’s own factory, which allows it to churn out all types of precision metal parts for aerospace, space and defense companies faster, more efficiently and with fewer people. Now he wants to build out a network of cookie-cutter, high-tech machine shops across the country to shake up a giant and fragmented industry. That’s a difficult and capital-intensive project, but one that Power argues is crucial for America’s industrial base. Investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, Founders Fund and Lux Capital, have bet $180 million on it, and the company is now worth roughly $500 million.
Former SpaceX engineer invents a “Robotic Blacksmith Army” | Hard Reset
It takes years to fix a complex fighter jet. Robo-factories could do it at the click of a button.
Automotive parts manufactured in the morning, aerospace parts manufactured at noon: Machina Labs’ factory of the future is rethinking manufacturing with roboforming.
Roboforming is a revolutionary way of shaping metal using robots and artificial intelligence. To keep up with our ever-shifting digital world, manufacturing needs to deviate from the standard practices established decades ago that most of the industry is still following.
Machina Labs is taking manufacturing to the next level by making it more nimble and accessible, no huge factories required. They’re approaching the industry with one big idea: What if custom manufacturing could be just as affordable and efficient?
Google DeepMind’s New AI Robot & AGI by 2027
Google DeepMind has developed an AI-powered robot capable of playing and winning ping pong matches against human opponents, demonstrating advanced machine learning techniques. Meanwhile, Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot is showcasing its impressive strength and agility by performing human-like exercises such as push-ups and burpees. Additionally, scientists are working on a global network of supercomputers designed to accelerate the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI), aiming to create AI that can think and learn like humans.