Latest news with #humanoidRobots
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
China's $138 Billion Bet on Embodied AI : The Future of Robots Is Here
What if robots could not only think but also move, adapt, and physically interact with their surroundings just like humans? This is no longer the realm of science fiction—it's the bold frontier of embodied AI, a field where China is emerging as a global powerhouse. With a staggering $138 billion in government funding and a manufacturing ecosystem that leads the world, China is redefining what artificial intelligence can achieve. From humanoid companions to industrial robots navigating hazardous environments, the nation's advancements in physical AI are poised to transform industries and reshape everyday life. But as these intelligent machines blur the line between human and robot capabilities, they also raise profound questions about the future of work, ethics, and global competition. In this perspective, Bloomberg Technology explore how China's strategic investments and technological breakthroughs are pushing the boundaries of embodied AI. You'll discover why this fusion of robotics and advanced algorithms is more than just a technological leap—it's a fantastic force with far-reaching implications for industries, economies, and societies worldwide. From the rise of humanoid agents in consumer homes to the deployment of robots in disaster zones, the possibilities are as exciting as they are disruptive. As we delve into this rapidly evolving field, one question lingers: how will the world adapt to a future where machines are no longer confined to virtual spaces but are fully integrated into the physical world? China's Embodied AI Leadership Understanding Embodied AI Embodied AI represents the convergence of advanced algorithms and robotics, allowing machines to physically interact with their environment. Unlike traditional AI systems that operate in virtual or digital spaces, embodied AI powers robots capable of performing tasks that require physical engagement and adaptability. These robots are already making a tangible impact across various sectors, including: Industrial Automation: Robots are optimizing manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing operational costs. Robots are optimizing manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing operational costs. Diagnostics and Safety: AI-driven robots are inspecting hazardous environments, minimizing risks for human workers while making sure precision and safety. AI-driven robots are inspecting hazardous environments, minimizing risks for human workers while making sure precision and safety. Consumer Applications: Humanoid robots are assisting with household tasks, providing companionship, and supporting educational activities. This fusion of intelligence and physical capability is driving innovation in both commercial and personal robotics, setting the stage for a new era of technological progress. By allowing robots to interact with the physical world, embodied AI is unlocking possibilities that were previously unattainable with traditional AI systems. China's Competitive Edge in Embodied AI China currently dominates approximately 70% of the global embodied AI market, a testament to its advanced manufacturing capabilities and efficient scaling of production. The country's well-established supply chain infrastructure and expertise in robotics development provide a significant competitive advantage. This dominance is further reinforced by the ability to produce high-quality robotics at competitive costs, making Chinese innovations highly attractive on the global stage. Leading companies such as Unitary exemplify this trend by developing consumer-oriented humanoid robots like the G1 humanoid agent. These robots are designed to assist with personal tasks and enhance human-robot interaction, showcasing China's ability to combine innovative technology with practical applications. The rapid deployment of such innovations highlights the country's strategic focus on maintaining its leadership in the robotics sector. Physical AI China's Next AI Breakthrough Watch this video on YouTube. Unlock more potential in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by reading previous articles we have written. Government Investments Fueling Progress The Chinese government has allocated an impressive $138 billion to advance robotics and AI technologies, with a particular emphasis on humanoid robot development. This substantial investment is driving research, development, and commercialization efforts, making sure that China remains at the forefront of embodied AI innovation. Key government initiatives include: Encouraging collaboration between academic institutions and private enterprises to accelerate technological breakthroughs. Providing financial incentives, such as grants and subsidies, to robotics companies to enhance their market readiness. Supporting state-backed research programs aimed at exploring advanced applications of AI in robotics. These strategic measures are not only fostering technological advancements but also solidifying China's position as a global leader in embodied AI. By prioritizing innovation and commercialization, the government is creating an ecosystem that supports sustained growth and development in the robotics sector. Impact on the Job Market The rise of embodied AI is reshaping the global job market, creating new opportunities while transforming traditional roles. As demand for skilled professionals in fields like algorithm engineering, robotics design, and system integration grows, salaries in these areas are increasing. This trend reflects the expanding need for expertise in developing, maintaining, and deploying advanced robotics systems. While automation may lead to the displacement of some traditional jobs, the robotics sector is expected to generate a net positive impact on employment. Emerging career paths in this field include: AI development and programming, focusing on creating intelligent algorithms for robotics. Robotics maintenance and system integration, making sure the seamless operation of advanced systems. Design and testing of innovative robotic solutions tailored to specific industries or consumer needs. This shift underscores the importance of upskilling and adapting to the evolving technological landscape. By embracing these changes, workers can position themselves to thrive in a future shaped by embodied AI. Applications Across Consumer and Industrial Sectors Embodied AI is demonstrating its versatility and value through applications in both consumer and industrial domains. In the consumer sector, humanoid robots are being developed to assist with everyday tasks, provide companionship, and support educational initiatives. These robots are designed to integrate seamlessly into daily life, enhancing convenience and quality of living. In the industrial sector, robots like Lenovo's Daystar are being deployed for critical tasks such as inspection and diagnostics in challenging environments. These include power plants, disaster zones, and other hazardous locations where human intervention may be risky or inefficient. By addressing complex challenges and improving operational efficiency, embodied AI is proving to be a fantastic force across diverse industries. Global Implications of China's Advancements China's progress in embodied AI is poised to have far-reaching implications for the global robotics market. The country's policies promoting cost-effective production and high-value innovation are allowing Chinese robotics to penetrate international markets at competitive prices. This global integration is expected to: Accelerate the adoption of robotics technologies across industries worldwide. Enhance productivity and operational efficiency in sectors ranging from manufacturing to healthcare. Make advanced robotics solutions more accessible to businesses and consumers globally. As Chinese robotics continue to gain traction internationally, the widespread adoption of embodied AI technologies is likely to shape the future of global industries. By driving innovation and reducing barriers to entry, China is playing a pivotal role in advancing the global robotics ecosystem. Shaping the Future of Robotics China's focus on embodied AI marks a critical juncture in the evolution of robotics. By combining advanced AI technologies with physical robotics, the country is addressing domestic challenges while positioning itself as a global leader. With robust government support, a skilled workforce, and a well-developed supply chain, China is shaping the future of robotics in ways that promise to redefine industries, enhance productivity, and improve lives worldwide. These advancements underscore the fantastic potential of embodied AI, offering a glimpse into a future where intelligent machines seamlessly integrate into human environments. Media Credit: Bloomberg Technology Filed Under: AI, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
21-06-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Meta vs OpenAI : Inside the $100M AI Talent War
What happens when the visionary behind OpenAI decides to challenge not just his competitors but the very norms of an industry hurtling toward unprecedented change? Sam Altman, a name synonymous with the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, is making waves—and not quietly. From calling out Meta's jaw-dropping $100 million signing bonuses to unveiling OpenAI's ambitions for humanoid robots and superintelligent AI, Altman's moves aren't just bold; they're reshaping the entire landscape of AI innovation. In a world where companies vie for dominance in AI supremacy, Altman's no-holds-barred approach raises a critical question: Is this the dawn of a new era of collaboration, or are we teetering on the edge of an AI arms race? Matthew Berman dives deep into the seismic shifts Altman is spearheading, from the highly anticipated GPT-5 to OpenAI's ventures into hardware and robotics. You'll discover how Meta's aggressive recruitment tactics are stirring controversy, why Altman believes AI could independently transform science within a decade, and what OpenAI's vision for human-centric AI devices could mean for our daily lives. But there's more beneath the surface—rivalries with tech titans like Elon Musk, ethical dilemmas surrounding superintelligence, and the race to define the future of AI governance. As the stakes rise, so do the questions about who will lead, who will follow, and what it all means for humanity. Sam Altman on AI Future Meta's Bold Recruitment Strategies Meta has emerged as a formidable competitor to OpenAI, employing aggressive recruitment tactics to attract top-tier AI talent. Altman disclosed that Meta has offered signing bonuses exceeding $100 million to lure researchers from OpenAI. While acknowledging Meta's financial resources, Altman criticized the company's approach, emphasizing that it prioritizes monetary incentives over a mission-driven culture. In contrast, OpenAI focuses on advancing AI responsibly, a vision that appeals to researchers who seek purpose and impact beyond financial rewards. This distinction highlights the growing divide in how leading AI organizations approach talent acquisition and organizational values. AI's Fantastic Role in Science Altman envisions a future where AI will independently discover new scientific principles within the next 5 to 10 years, fundamentally transforming research across disciplines. Current AI models already enhance scientific productivity by analyzing complex datasets, simulating experiments, and generating hypotheses—tasks that traditionally require advanced expertise. For instance, AI systems are accelerating breakthroughs in areas such as drug discovery, where they identify potential treatments faster than traditional methods, and climate modeling, where they analyze vast environmental data to predict changes. Altman foresees AI evolving from a supportive tool to an autonomous driver of new discoveries, reshaping the landscape of scientific innovation. OpenAI vs Meta : $100 Million Battle for AI Talent Watch this video on YouTube. Find more information on OpenAI by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. What to Expect from GPT-5 OpenAI is preparing to launch GPT-5, the next iteration of its language model, by the summer of 2024. Altman described the vision of creating 'omni-models'—AI systems capable of seamlessly handling a wide range of tasks. These models aim to integrate functionalities such as text generation, image recognition, and problem-solving into a unified platform. By simplifying user interactions and enhancing AI's versatility, OpenAI seeks to make AI more accessible and impactful across industries. From healthcare, where AI could assist in diagnostics and patient care, to education, where it could personalize learning experiences, GPT-5 represents a step toward more comprehensive and adaptable AI solutions. OpenAI's Hardware and Robotics Ambitions OpenAI is expanding its focus beyond software, venturing into innovative hardware designs in collaboration with renowned designer Johnny Ive. The envisioned devices aim to prioritize portability and context-aware functionality, potentially replacing traditional screens with audio-visual interactions. This approach reflects OpenAI's commitment to creating intuitive, human-centric AI tools that integrate seamlessly into daily life. Such devices could adapt to user needs, provide real-time assistance, and operate naturally in diverse environments. In the realm of robotics, Altman outlined a long-term vision to develop humanoid robots within the next decade. These robots could incorporate advanced AI capabilities to perform complex tasks, such as assisting in healthcare settings or automating industrial processes. OpenAI is also exploring advancements in self-driving technology, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional sensors like LiDAR. By using AI's ability to process visual and contextual data, OpenAI hopes to create more efficient and cost-effective autonomous systems. These efforts underscore OpenAI's ambition to push the boundaries of AI applications in both physical and digital domains. Rivalry with Elon Musk Altman addressed the ongoing competition with Elon Musk, accusing Musk of using government influence to gain an advantage in the AI sector. He criticized Musk's 'zero-sum' approach, which frames AI development as a winner-takes-all race. Despite these challenges, Altman reaffirmed OpenAI's commitment to collaboration and transparency, emphasizing the importance of shared progress in AI research. By fostering an environment of openness and ethical responsibility, OpenAI aims to ensure that advancements in AI benefit society as a whole, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a few. Superintelligence: A Defining Milestone Altman defines superintelligence as AI systems capable of autonomous scientific discovery or significantly enhancing human capabilities in science. Achieving this milestone would represent a profound shift in the relationship between humans and technology, with far-reaching societal implications. Altman stressed the need for ethical governance to ensure that superintelligence is developed and deployed responsibly. He urged for careful oversight to mitigate risks, such as misuse or unintended consequences, while maximizing its potential to address global challenges. This vision underscores the importance of balancing innovation with accountability in the pursuit of advanced AI. Reimagining AI Hardware OpenAI envisions a future where AI integrates seamlessly into everyday life through innovative hardware solutions. One concept involves a portable, context-aware device that interacts with users through audio-visual inputs rather than traditional screens. Such a device could adapt to user needs, provide real-time assistance, and operate intuitively in various environments. This vision aligns with OpenAI's broader mission to make AI more human-centric and accessible, bridging the gap between advanced technology and practical, everyday applications. Sam Altman's insights provide a compelling look at the dynamic and competitive nature of the AI industry. From Meta's recruitment strategies to the development of GPT-5 and the pursuit of superintelligence, OpenAI is navigating a complex landscape filled with both opportunities and challenges. By focusing on innovation, collaboration, and ethical responsibility, OpenAI aims to shape the future of AI in ways that benefit society while addressing the competitive pressures of a rapidly evolving field. Media Credit: Matthew Berman Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
South China Morning Post
20-06-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Unitree Robotics reaches unicorn status with ByteDance, Alibaba, Tencent funding
Unitree Robotics , a leading player in China's booming robotics industry, has completed a new round of financing, attracting investment from some of the country's biggest tech companies amid excitement surrounding this sector. The Hangzhou-based company, founded by Wang Xingxing , was valued at over 10 billion yuan (US$1.3 billion), according to investors and local media reports. Notable backers in the latest funding round included ByteDance-affiliated Jinqiu Capital, Alibaba Group Holding and affiliate Ant Group, Tencent Holdings, China Mobile and carmaker Geely Group. Alibaba owns the South China Morning Post. Jinqiu partner Zang Tianyu said in a statement that Unitree was the world's top producer of quadruped and humanoid robots. He stressed that the start-up had the potential to lead advances in humanoid robotics, leveraging its extensive expertise across hardware and software. 10:41 How Hangzhou's 'Six Little Dragons' built a new Chinese tech hub How Hangzhou's 'Six Little Dragons' built a new Chinese tech hub Unitree gained national fame when its humanoid robots showcased their dancing skills at the annual Lunar New Year's Eve gala on China Central Television. Wang, 35, has become a prominent figure among China's new generation of entrepreneurs after attending a high-profile symposium hosted by President Xi Jinping in February.
TechCrunch
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- TechCrunch
Figure AI CEO skips live demo, sidesteps BMW deal questions on stage at tech conference
Brett Adcock, co-founder and CEO of the humanoid robotics startup Figure AI, made a rare public appearance at the Bloomberg Tech conference on Thursday. Figure has recently been the subject of a couple of news articles that questioned its progress with marquee customer BMW. Figure objected so strenuously to at least one of these reports that Adcock publicly threatened to sue the publication. When asked about the skepticism surrounding the BMW relationship and whether it is a pilot or has commercial value to the company, Adcock replied with an explanation of the technical benefit of having robots on a factory floor but didn't provide specifics about the contractual relationship with BMW. 'We get a lot of value, and it's really important that we need to figure out how to run robots every day. We get to see how well they perform. We get to track all the metrics,' he said. Two months ago, Figure also published a YouTube video showing a couple of its robots working in a BMW factory. Adcock did, however, say that Figure AI has signed a contract with a second, unnamed customer for initial deployment, a customer that Bloomberg has reported to be UPS. Figure AI has drawn attention for making claims that its AI-powered robots possess human-like fine motor skills and can manipulate objects with precision. Despite releasing numerous videos of its robots at work, the company hasn't done a live demonstration of the humanoids. The interviewer, Bloomberg's Ed Ludlow, pointed out that while two other robotics companies, Agility Robotics and Boston Dynamics, showcased their robots at the conference, Figure AI did not. 'It kind of goes back to our whole philosophy around we don't go to a lot of events,' said Adcock. 'I think it's a giant waste of time. To be frank, I have to bring a team here to bring robots here. They could be at the office,' he said, adding that the company is showcasing the robots in videos. Adcock confirmed that Figure AI is expecting to manufacture and deploy roughly 100,000 units within four years. Techcrunch event Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Boston, MA | REGISTER NOW The skepticism about Figure's commercial relationship comes amid the company's attempts to raise a $1.5 billion round at a $39.5 billion valuation, sources told Bloomberg, a fifteenfold increase from the $2.6 billion valuation it achieved in February 2024. TechCrunch reported in April that Figure AI has been issuing cease-and-desist letters to secondary market brokers, demanding they stop marketing its shares because they are not authorized to do so.
The Independent
04-06-2025
- Business
- The Independent
A soccer mystery: Why mighty China fails at the world's biggest sport
In April, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited a company that makes humanoid robots. There he floated an idea to fix the country's woeful men's soccer team. 'Can we have robots join the team?' Xi was quoted as saying on the website of Zhiyuan Robotics. It might be too late. China will be out of World Cup qualifying if it fails to beat Indonesia on Thursday. Even a victory may only delay the departure. What's the problem? China has 1.4 billion people, the globe's second largest economy and won 40 Olympic gold medals last year in Paris to tie the United States. Why can't it find 11 elite men's soccer players? How soccer explains a bit of China The government touches every aspect of life in China. That top-down control has helped China become the largest manufacturer of everything from electronics to shoes to steel. It has tried to run soccer, but that rigid governance hasn't worked. 'What soccer reflects is the social and political problems of China," Zhang Feng, a Chinese journalist and commentator, tells The Associated Press. "It's not a free society. It doesn't have the team-level trust that allows players to pass the ball to each other without worrying.' Zhang argues that politics has stalled soccer's growth. And there's added pressure since Xi's a big fan and has promised to resuscitate the game at home. Soccer is a world language with its 'own grammar,' says Zhang, and China doesn't speak it. 'In China, the more emphasis the leader places on soccer, the more nervous the society gets, the more power the bureaucrats get, and the more corrupt they become," Zhang adds. Xi Jinping's dream — or nightmare? After China defeated Thailand 2-1 in 2023, Xi joked with Srettha Thavisin, the Thai prime minister at the time. "I feel luck was a big part of it,' Xi said. The consensus is clear. China has too few quality players at the grass roots, too much political interference from the Communist Party, and there's too much corruption in the local game. Wang Xiaolei, another prominent Chinese commentator, suggests that soccer clashes with China's top-down governance and the emphasis on rote learning. 'What are we best at? Dogma," Wang wrote in a blog last year. 'But football cannot be dogmatic. What are we worst at? Inspiring ingenuity, and cultivating passion.' Soccer is bigger than China The latest chapter in China's abysmal men's soccer history was a 7-0 loss last year to geopolitical rival Japan. 'The fact that this defeat can happen and people aren't that surprised — despite the historical animosity — just illustrates the problems facing football in China," says Cameron Wilson, a Scot who has worked in China for 20 years and written extensively about the game there. China has qualified for only one men's World Cup. That was 2002 when it went scoreless and lost all three matches. Soccer's governing body FIFA places China at No. 94 in its rankings — behind war-torn Syria and ahead of No. 95 Benin. For perspective: Iceland is the smallest country to reach the World Cup. Its latest population estimate is almost 400,000. The website Soccerway tracks global football and doesn't show a single Chinese player in a top European league. The national team's best player is forward Wu Lei, who played for three seasons in Spain's La Liga for Espanyol. The club's majority owner in Chinese. The 2026 World Cup will have a field of 48 teams, a big increase on the 32 in 2022, yet China still might not make it. China will be eliminated from qualification if it loses to Indonesia. Even if it wins, China must also beat Bahrain on June 10 to have any hope of advancing to Asia's next qualifying stage. An outsider views Chinese soccer Englishman Rowan Simons has spent almost 40 years in China and gained fame doing television commentary in Chinese on English Premier League matches. He also wrote the 2008 book 'Bamboo Goalposts.' China is benefiting from reforms over the last decade that placed soccer in schools. But Simons argues that soccer culture grows from volunteers, civil society and club organizations, none of which can flourish in China since they are possible challengers to the rule of the Communist Party. 'In China at the age of 12 or 13, when kids go to middle school, it's known as the cliff,' he says. "Parents may allow their kids to play sports when they're younger, but as soon as it comes to middle school the academic pressure is on — things like sport go by the wayside.' To be fair, the Chinese women's team has done better than the men. China finished runner-up in the 1999 Women's World Cup but has faded as European teams have surged with built-in expertise from the men's game. Spain won the 2023 Women's World Cup. China was knocked out early, battered 6-1 by England in group play. China has been successful targeting Olympic sports, some of which are relatively obscure and rely on repetitive training more than creativity. Olympic team sports like soccer offer only one medal. So, like many countries, China focuses on sports with multiple medals. In China's case it's diving, table tennis and weightlifting. 'For young people, there's a single value — testing well,' says Zhang, the commentator and journalist. "China would be OK if playing soccer were only about bouncing the ball 1,000 times." The face of corruption Li Tie, the national team coach for about two years beginning in January 2020, was last year sentenced to 20 years in prison for bribery and match fixing. Other top administrators have also been accused of corruption. The graft also extended to the domestic Super League. Clubs spent millions — maybe billions — on foreign talents backed by many state-owned businesses and, before the collapse of the housing boom, real-estate developers. The poster child was Guangzhou Evergrande. The eight-time Super League champions, once coached by Italian Marcello Lippi, was expelled from the league and disbanded earlier this year, unable to pay off its debts. Zhang says businessmen invested in professional soccer teams as a 'political tribute" and cited Hui Ka-yan. The embattled real estate developer financed the Guangzhou Evergrande Football Club and used soccer to win favor from politicians. Property giant Evergrande has amassed debts reported at $300 billion, reflective of China's battered property segment and the general health of the economy. 'China's failure at the international level and corruption throughout the game, these are all factors that lead parents away from letting their kids get involved,' says Simons, who founded a youth soccer club called China Club Football FC. 'Parents look at what's going on and question if they want their kids to be involved. It's sad and frustrating.' Wade reported from Tokyo and Tang from Washington. ___
