Robotics Daily News: RealSense Spins Out from Intel, Secures $50 Million to Drive AI Vision in Robotics

RealSense Spins Out from Intel, Secures $50 Million to Drive AI Vision in Robotics

RealSense, a computer vision technology firm, has officially spun out from Intel and secured $50 million in early-stage funding to expand in the robotics sector. The company specializes in 3D vision cameras that enable machines to perceive depth and interact with their environment. Backed by Intel Capital, the MediaTek Innovation Fund, and other strategic investors, RealSense plans to use the funds to scale manufacturing, boost global operations, and invest in AI software and next-generation depth camera development. (reuters.com)

UK Health Secretary Puts Robotic Surgeons at Heart of 10-Year Plan for NHS

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has unveiled plans to make robotics central to a 10-year strategy to reform and enhance the NHS’s productivity. Robot-assisted surgeries are to become standard for procedures like ENT, urology, and orthopaedics, aiming for one in eight operations to be robot-assisted by 2035, up from the current one in 60. Hospitals not adopting this technology may face financial penalties through a system of 'best practice tariffs.' (ft.com)

China's Humanoid Robots Generate More Soccer Excitement Than Their Human Counterparts

In Beijing, humanoid robot soccer teams have captivated audiences, surpassing the excitement generated by China's underperforming national men's soccer team. On Saturday, four university teams competed in China's first fully autonomous 3-on-3 robot soccer tournament, driven entirely by artificial intelligence without human intervention. The event served as a preview for the upcoming World Humanoid Robot Games. (apnews.com)

Specialized Robots Attract Billions with Efficient Task Handling

Specialized task-focused robots are drawing significant investor interest and funding due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and clear paths to profitability. Unlike complex humanoid robots still struggling with real-world adaptability and high production costs, these utilitarian machines excel in singular tasks such as transporting heavy loads, delivering supplies in healthcare, and industrial inspections. In Q1 2025, over $2.26 billion was invested in robotics globally, with more than 70% directed at companies building task-specific robots. (reuters.com)

America's Manufacturing Future Still Needs Foreign Robots

The Trump administration is advocating for a revitalization of U.S. manufacturing through automation and an enhanced workforce. However, the success of this initiative currently relies heavily on foreign-made industrial robots, as the majority used in American factories are imported. Despite America's historical leadership in robotics, with roots dating back to the first industrial robot in 1961, it now lags behind rapidly advancing countries like China, which prioritizes robotics under the 'Made in China 2025' initiative. (axios.com)