Robotics Daily News: UK's NHS Integrates Robotics into 10-Year Reform Plan

UK's NHS Integrates Robotics into 10-Year Reform Plan

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has unveiled a 10-year strategy to incorporate robotics into the National Health Service (NHS). The plan aims to make robot-assisted surgeries standard for procedures like ENT, urology, and orthopaedics, targeting one in eight operations by 2035. Hospitals not adopting this technology may face financial penalties. The strategy also includes robotic support in NHS pharmacies and data entry through robotic process automation. However, concerns about capital investment and data privacy remain. A new workforce plan tailored to emerging technologies is expected in the autumn. (ft.com)

China's Humanoid Robots Gain Popularity in Soccer Matches

In Beijing, humanoid robot soccer teams have captivated audiences, surpassing the excitement generated by China's underperforming national men's soccer team. Four university teams competed in China's first fully autonomous 3-on-3 robot soccer tournament, showcasing advanced AI technologies. Tsinghua University's THU Robotics emerged as the champion, defeating China Agricultural University's Mountain Sea team 5-3. This event underscores China's growing investment in AI-powered humanoid robots, using sports as a testing ground for real-world applications. (apnews.com)

China's AI-Powered Humanoid Robots Aim to Transform Manufacturing

China is advancing its use of AI-powered humanoid robots to transform the manufacturing sector amid economic challenges. Startups like AgiBot and MagicLab, backed by government support, are deploying robots capable of performing complex tasks including assembly and quality control. The government provides significant subsidies, with over $20 billion allocated to robot firms. However, concerns about job disruption persist, prompting legislators to propose unemployment insurance schemes and emphasize robots focusing on undesirable or hazardous tasks. (reuters.com)

South Korea Launches K-Humanoid Alliance to Boost Robotics Industry

South Korea has launched the K-Humanoid Alliance, a research and development coalition comprising government bodies, academic institutions, and robot manufacturing companies. The alliance aims to develop a common AI model for humanoid robots by 2028 and produce a commercial humanoid robot capable of lifting objects weighing 20kg or more by 2030. Participating organizations include major robotics companies and universities, with plans to foster talent through undergraduate student participation in major projects. (en.wikipedia.org)

Neura Robotics Secures €120 Million Funding for Humanoid Robots

German robotics company Neura Robotics has secured an additional €120 million ($123.3 million USD) in Series B funding to continue developing cognitive humanoid robots in Europe for multiple industries. The company specializes in creating robots designed to work alongside humans in various sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. This funding aims to enhance research and development efforts and expand the company's business in Asia and the U.S. (en.wikipedia.org)