News/Manufacturing
Go, Figure! Company secures deal to deploy 100K humanoid robots in 4 years
Figure AI has secured a major partnership to manufacture and deploy up to 100,000 humanoid robots over the next four years, marking one of the largest commercial robotics deals in U.S. history. The agreement positions the American company to compete directly with Chinese robotics manufacturers like Zhiyuan Robotics in the rapidly expanding humanoid robotics market. What you should know: Figure AI's CEO Brett Adcock announced the partnership with "one of the largest companies in the United States," though specific details remain confidential. The deal will focus on cost reduction and AI data collection while targeting both commercial operations and household...
read Sep 19, 2025Scotland’s west coast lands £15B AI industrial park in Irvine
AI Pathfinder has selected Irvine, Scotland as the location for a major artificial intelligence industrial park, with plans for up to £15 billion in investment that could transform the region into one of Europe's largest AI infrastructure hubs. The project, backed by London-based property development company Salamanca, represents a significant bet on Scotland's potential as an AI innovation center and promises substantial job creation for the area. What you should know: The i3 industrial park will begin with an initial £385 million investment starting next year, building infrastructure for other companies to use similar to cloud computing services. AI Pathfinder,...
read Sep 18, 2025NVIDIA buys $5B Intel stake to forge chip manufacturing partnership
NVIDIA has agreed to purchase $5 billion worth of Intel stock at $23.28 per share, making it a major shareholder in the struggling chipmaker just weeks after the U.S. government acquired a 10% stake. The strategic investment will create a new partnership where Intel manufactures NVIDIA chips while incorporating NVIDIA's RTX GPU chiplets into its own PC processors, potentially reshaping the competitive dynamics in both AI infrastructure and consumer computing markets. What you should know: The deal creates a mutually beneficial manufacturing and technology partnership between the two chip giants. Intel will build NVIDIA-custom x86 CPUs that NVIDIA will integrate...
read Sep 11, 2025OpenSpace launches AI indoor positioning that cuts documentation time by 50%
OpenSpace has introduced an AI-powered auto-location service that provides real-time indoor positioning for smartphones on construction sites, eliminating the need for additional hardware like Bluetooth beacons. The technology addresses a longstanding pain point in construction workflows where GPS fails to work effectively indoors once buildings are enclosed, potentially transforming how contractors document and manage jobsite progress. How it works: OpenSpace's Spatial AI compares real-time sensor data from smartphones with maps generated from pre-existing 360° captures of indoor spaces on the platform. The system progressively refines location estimations even as jobsites change over time, using entirely software-based solutions rather than requiring...
read Sep 11, 2025Construction robotics market to hit $8.47B by 2034 amid labor shortages
The advanced robotics in construction market is projected to surge from $1.53 billion in 2024 to $8.47 billion by 2034, representing a compound annual growth rate of 18.7%. This dramatic expansion reflects the construction industry's urgent need to address labor shortages, safety concerns, and efficiency demands through automation technologies ranging from autonomous vehicles to 3D printing robots. Why this matters: Construction companies are increasingly turning to robotics to solve persistent industry challenges while meeting growing infrastructure demands in an era of rapid urbanization. Key market drivers: Several factors are accelerating adoption of construction robotics across the industry. Labor shortages in...
read Sep 10, 2025Chemistry-focused CuspAI raises $100M to accelerate AI-designed materials discovery
CuspAI, an artificial intelligence startup developing models for chemistry discovery, has raised $100 million in Series A funding led by New Enterprise Associates (NEA), a prominent venture capital firm, and Temasek, Singapore's sovereign wealth fund. The round, which values the company at $520 million, positions CuspAI to accelerate the development of AI-designed materials ranging from carbon capture substances to advanced semiconductors, targeting markets that could reshape manufacturing and sustainability efforts. What you should know: CuspAI has assembled an impressive roster of AI luminaries and industry veterans to guide its mission of using AI to discover new materials. The company's advisory...
read Sep 9, 2025Dutch ASML invests $1.5B in French Mistral AI, becomes largest shareholder
ASML, the Dutch semiconductor equipment maker, will invest 1.3 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in French artificial intelligence startup Mistral AI, securing an 11% stake and becoming the company's main shareholder. The strategic investment also includes a partnership to integrate Mistral's AI models across ASML's product portfolio and grants ASML a seat on Mistral's strategic committee. Why this matters: The deal represents one of the largest corporate investments in a European AI startup, signaling ASML's commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into its semiconductor manufacturing equipment business while strengthening Europe's position in the global AI race. Key details: ASML's investment makes it...
read Sep 8, 2025RoboBallet AI makes manufacturing elegant, coordinating 8 robotic arms in seconds
UCL, Google DeepMind, and Intrinsic have developed RoboBallet, an AI system that coordinates multiple robotic arms in manufacturing environments, solving up to 40 tasks with eight robotic arms in seconds compared to traditional programming methods that require hours of human work. The system uses reinforcement learning and graph neural networks to choreograph robot movements with unprecedented precision, potentially transforming factory efficiency and scalability across industries from automotive to electronics assembly. How it works: RoboBallet employs AI to learn optimal coordination patterns through trial and error, replacing labor-intensive manual programming. The system uses reinforcement learning (AI that learns through trial and...
read Sep 4, 2025OPTEL acquires Vanguard Robotics to expand pharma automation beyond traceability
OPTEL Group has acquired Vanguard Robotics, a specialist in collaborative robot automation for pharmaceutical end-of-line operations. The strategic acquisition expands OPTEL's capabilities beyond its core traceability and supply chain solutions, positioning the company as a comprehensive automation partner for pharmaceutical manufacturers facing labor shortages and demanding regulatory requirements. Why this matters: The pharmaceutical industry is grappling with an aging workforce and shrinking labor pool, driving urgent demand for automation solutions that can deliver ROI within one to two years while maintaining strict compliance standards. What you should know: Vanguard Robotics brings specialized expertise in collaborative robotics tailored specifically for regulated...
read Sep 4, 2025Startup uses AI and robotics to build shippable homes 30-50% cheaper
Raleigh-based startup Placeable has launched to tackle the U.S. housing affordability crisis using AI, robotics, and modular construction to produce homes that are 30-50% cheaper per square foot than traditional builds. Founded by veteran entrepreneur Ed Holloway, the company aims to streamline housing production through automated factory processes that eliminate common construction inefficiencies like weather delays, material waste, and labor bottlenecks. The big picture: Placeable represents a technology-first approach to addressing America's housing shortage, which has left the country undersupplied by millions of homes due to slow, fragmented traditional construction methods. How it works: The startup builds homes in controlled...
read Sep 3, 2025China showcases AI-powered military arsenal in “cognitive era” Victory Day parade
China showcased its most advanced military capabilities during yesterday's Victory Day parade in Beijing, revealing unprecedented integration of artificial intelligence across its arsenal. The display confirmed China's transition into what experts call the "cognitive era" of warfare, where AI-driven systems operate at machine speed across air, sea, and land domains. The big picture: China's military modernization has reached a tipping point where autonomous systems and AI integration define operational capabilities rather than supplement them. Many parade systems were overtly autonomous, including loyal wingmen drones and reconnaissance platforms with AI-driven flight control, mission planning, and sensor interpretation. The breadth of AI...
read Sep 2, 2025Self, yes, but sufficient? Alibaba builds AI chip entirely in China amid US export controls
Alibaba has developed a new AI chip designed to handle a broader range of inference tasks, marking a significant shift toward domestic semiconductor production as the chip is being manufactured entirely in China. This development represents a strategic pivot away from foreign suppliers like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which produced Alibaba's earlier AI processors, and aligns with Beijing's broader push for technological self-sufficiency amid ongoing U.S. export restrictions. What you should know: The new chip is currently undergoing testing and represents Alibaba's latest effort to reduce dependence on foreign AI semiconductor suppliers. Unlike previous generations of Alibaba's AI processors...
read Sep 1, 2025Apple shifts automation costs to suppliers in major policy change
Apple has mandated that suppliers implement robotics and automation systems as a prerequisite for manufacturing contracts, marking a significant shift from its previous approach of financially supporting supplier upgrades. The move aims to reduce labor dependency, improve product quality consistency, and cut long-term production costs as Apple continues diversifying its supply chain away from China. The big picture: This automation mandate represents Apple's most aggressive push yet toward robotics-driven manufacturing, covering all major product lines including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch production. Key policy changes: Apple now requires suppliers to fund their own automation upgrades rather than providing financial...
read Aug 29, 2025Laborup raises $7.7M to solve US manufacturing worker shortage with AI
Artificial intelligence startup Laborup has raised $7.7 million in seed funding to address America's critical manufacturing labor shortage using voice-first AI recruitment technology. The funding comes as the U.S. faces over 450,000 unfilled manufacturing jobs, with projections that 2.1 million roles could remain vacant by 2030—potentially costing up to $1 trillion in lost output annually. The big picture: America's manufacturing boom is creating a paradox where massive industrial investments are driving job creation, but companies lack the workforce to fill critical roles. Companies have announced trillions in new U.S. manufacturing investments since 2020 across electric vehicles, semiconductors, defense, nuclear, and...
read Aug 28, 2025Volkswagen’s 5-year AWS deal targets tens of millions in AI factory savings
Volkswagen has extended its cloud partnership with Amazon Web Services for another five years, deepening its commitment to using AI for production optimization across its global manufacturing network. The German automaker estimates the AI-driven systems will generate tens of millions of euros in cost savings over the medium term, supporting its broader cost-cutting overhaul. What you should know: Volkswagen's digital production platform is already operational across 43 manufacturing locations in Europe, North America, and South America. The cloud-based system connects factories to optimize complex vehicle assembly processes and improve operational efficiency. Volkswagen operates over 114 production sites globally, suggesting significant...
read Aug 27, 2025University of Maine opens $7M robotics center for defense manufacturing
The University of Maine has opened the B.O.T. (Build, Optimize, and Train) Loft, a new robotics and automation training facility inside its Advanced Manufacturing Center in Bangor. The facility offers accelerated training programs ranging from one to five days, designed to help manufacturing workers quickly adapt to new automation technologies without extended time away from their jobs. What you should know: The B.O.T. Loft addresses a critical gap in manufacturing workforce development by offering compressed, practical training programs. Companies can choose from sixteen different credentials across four different robotics platforms, allowing workers to train on equipment that matches their workplace...
read Aug 25, 2025ARX Robotics launches Combat Gereon, first AI combat drone for Ukraine
European defense company ARX Robotics has introduced the Combat Gereon, its first AI-powered combat unmanned ground vehicle developed in partnership with Ukrainian companies. The system represents a significant step toward "first unmanned contact" warfare, designed to perform high-risk missions and reduce soldier casualties on active battlefields. What you should know: The Combat Gereon combines proven robotics with AI-enabled autonomous functions specifically adapted for real combat conditions based on Ukrainian military feedback. The vehicle can carry payloads up to 500 kilograms and operate over distances of 40 kilometers. It performs reconnaissance, route clearance, and forward observation missions in high-risk areas. The...
read Aug 21, 2025AI in smart factory infrastructure, manufacturing projected to reach $155B by 2030
The global artificial intelligence in manufacturing market is projected to surge from $34.18 billion in 2025 to $155.04 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 35.3%, according to a new MarketsandMarkets™ report. This explosive growth reflects manufacturers' accelerating adoption of AI technologies for real-time data analysis, intelligent automation, and operational optimization across industries ranging from automotive to pharmaceuticals, positioning AI as a foundational technology for next-generation manufacturing capabilities. Key market dynamics: The expansion is fueled by the integration of AI with industrial IoT platforms, edge computing, and cloud analytics, enabling responsive and scalable operations across diverse manufacturing...
read Aug 19, 2025One good turn: Keychain raises $30M to replace legacy ERP systems with AI-powered OS
Keychain, an AI-powered marketplace for consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers, has raised $30 million in Series B funding and launched KeychainOS, an AI operating system designed to replace legacy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems in manufacturing. The company, founded by former Angi CEO Oisin Hanrahan, aims to capture market share in the $81.15 billion ERP market by offering a CPG-specific alternative that can be implemented in days rather than months. What you should know: Keychain has rapidly grown from a search-and-discovery platform to a comprehensive AI operating system serving major retailers and CPG brands. The company now serves more than...
read Aug 18, 2025Foxconn sells $375M Ohio plant, pivots from EVs to AI servers
Foxconn has sold its 3-million-square-foot Ohio manufacturing facility to Crescent Dune LLC for $375 million, while retaining operational control through a long-term occupancy agreement. The strategic move allows Foxconn to pivot the Lordstown plant from troubled electric vehicle production to manufacturing AI servers for major clients including Nvidia and Apple, capitalizing on the more predictable, high-margin AI hardware market. What you should know: The ownership transfer is essentially a financial restructuring that keeps Foxconn in charge of operations while offloading real estate assets. Foxconn will continue operating the facility under a long-term occupancy agreement, maintaining control over production and employment....
read Aug 14, 2025Server Economy: Foxconn profits surge 27% as AI infrastructure demand booms
Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics maker, reported a 27% surge in second-quarter profit to T$44.4 billion ($1.48 billion), beating analyst expectations driven by booming demand for AI servers. The Taiwan-based manufacturer, which assembles iPhones for Apple and servers for Nvidia, expects AI server revenue to jump more than 170% year-over-year in the third quarter as artificial intelligence infrastructure spending accelerates. Key financial highlights: Foxconn's Q2 performance significantly outpaced market forecasts, with net profit reaching T$44.4 billion compared to the consensus estimate of T$38.8 billion. The company reported record second-quarter revenue last month, primarily fueled by strong AI product demand....
read Aug 13, 2025AI helps manufacturers maintain lean inventories amid tariff uncertainty
Manufacturers are increasingly deploying artificial intelligence to navigate supply chain volatility caused by tariffs and trade disruptions, with companies like The Toro Company using AI to maintain lean inventories despite global uncertainties. This shift represents a significant business opportunity, as spending on generative AI for supply chains could surge from $2.7 billion today to $55 billion by 2029, according to Gartner, a research firm. What you should know: Companies are returning to "just in time" inventory management despite ongoing trade tensions, relying on AI to make this approach viable. U.S. manufacturers' inventories have mostly contracted since their post-pandemic expansion, with...
read Aug 12, 2025Apple’s AI ambitions threaten 2030 carbon neutrality goal
Apple is facing mounting challenges in meeting its 2030 carbon neutrality goal as AI ambitions collide with climate commitments, with iPhone emissions progress stalling since 2022 despite earlier gains. The tech giant's push into artificial intelligence through Apple Intelligence is creating new energy demands while supplier compliance issues and global manufacturing shifts further complicate its environmental targets. The emissions reality: iPhone carbon footprints have plateaued after initial progress, revealing the tension between innovation and sustainability. The iPhone 12 Pro started at 82 kilograms CO2E in 2020, dropped sharply to 69 kilograms for the iPhone 13 Pro, but then stalled completely...
read Aug 11, 2025Amazon uses AI and synthetic data to boost “zero-touch manufacturing”
Amazon Devices & Services has deployed a groundbreaking AI-powered manufacturing solution at one of its facilities that enables robotic arms to autonomously audit devices and integrate new products into production lines using only synthetic data. The technology represents a major advancement toward "zero-touch manufacturing," where robots can handle diverse products without requiring physical prototypes or hardware changes, significantly accelerating production timelines and reducing costs. How it works: The solution combines Amazon's custom software with NVIDIA digital twin technologies to create photorealistic, physics-enabled simulations of devices and factory workstations. NVIDIA Isaac Sim generates over 50,000 synthetic images from CAD (computer-aided design)...
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