Robotics Weekly - Amazon Vulcan, South Korea launches the K-Humanoid Alliance
Top Robotics News and Developments (May 2 - May 9, 2025)
🔍 1. This Week’s Snapshot
Amazon introduces Vulcan, a warehouse robot with tactile sensing capabilities.
Tariff concerns impact U.S. humanoid robot manufacturers amid global supply chain challenges.
China's robotics sector faces scrutiny after a humanoid robot malfunctions during a factory test.
South Korea launches the K-Humanoid Alliance to advance humanoid robot development by 2030.
NVIDIA unveils new AI chips and robotics models, signaling a shift towards "physical AI."
📰 2. Top 5 News of the Week
1. Amazon Unveils Vulcan: A Robot with a Sense of Touch
At its "Delivering the Future" event in Germany, Amazon introduced Vulcan, a warehouse robot equipped with tactile sensing. Vulcan can handle approximately 75% of items in Amazon's warehouses, using AI to identify and manipulate objects by touch. This advancement aims to reduce physical strain on human workers and improve warehouse efficiency. Enterprise Technology News and Analysis+2The Guardian+2IoT World Today+2
2. U.S. Robot Makers Face Tariff Challenges
During the 2025 Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston, U.S. humanoid robot developers expressed concerns over global tariffs, particularly those affecting components like sensors and semiconductors. These tariffs could disrupt international supply chains, potentially delaying production and increasing costs. Companies like Agility Robotics are considering shifting towards domestic production to mitigate these challenges. AP News+1The Courier of Montgomery County+1
3. Humanoid Robot Malfunctions in Chinese Factory
A viral video shows a humanoid robot in a Chinese factory malfunctioning during a capability test, moving erratically and causing concern among workers. The incident has sparked discussions about the safety and reliability of advanced robotics, especially as they become more integrated into industrial settings. New York Post
4. South Korea Launches K-Humanoid Alliance
South Korea has initiated the K-Humanoid Alliance, bringing together government, academia, and industry leaders to develop humanoid robots capable of lifting over 20kg, with more than 50 joints, and speeds up to 2.5m/s by 2028. The alliance aims to position South Korea as a leader in humanoid robotics by 2030. Wikipedia
5. NVIDIA Introduces New AI Chips and Robotics Models
At GTC 2025, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang unveiled the company's next-generation AI chips, Blackwell Ultra and Vera Rubin, along with new robotics models like Isaac GR00T N1. These advancements aim to enhance AI capabilities in robotics, emphasizing the shift towards "physical AI" that can reason and interact with the physical world. AP News
🧪 3. Top 5 Robotics Research/Developments of the Week
1. MIT Develops Robots That Learn Object Properties by Touch
MIT researchers have developed a method allowing robots to learn about an object's weight, softness, or contents by picking it up and gently shaking it. This tactile learning approach enhances robots' ability to interact with unknown objects more effectively. Log in or sign up to view
2. Flex Printer Enables Autonomous Soft Robot Fabrication
Researchers introduced the Flex Printer, an open-source, low-cost platform capable of printing ultra-flexible soft robots with embedded fluidic logic. Notably, these robots can autonomously walk off the print bed immediately after fabrication, marking a significant milestone in soft robotics. arXiv
3. Stonefish Simulator Enhances Marine Robotics Research
The Stonefish simulator has been updated to support machine learning research in marine robotics. Enhancements include additional sensors, improved hydrodynamics, and better sonar accuracy, providing a more robust platform for developing and testing underwater robotic solutions. arXiv
4. Bio-Inspired Collision Detection in Neuro-Robotics
A study on lobula giant movement detectors (LGMDs) in locusts has informed the development of collision detection systems in robots. By mimicking these biological systems, robots can achieve rapid and precise collision avoidance, enhancing their navigation capabilities. arXiv
5. Advances in Human-Robot Interaction for Soft Robots
Research into human-robot interaction (HRI) for soft robots has highlighted the importance of design, control, and materials in developing safe and effective collaborative robots. The study emphasizes the potential of soft robotics in applications requiring close human interaction. arXiv
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🧭 4. Ethics, Policies, and Government
U.S. Robotics Industry Calls for National Strategy: Industry leaders advocate for a cohesive national robotics strategy to compete globally, particularly against advancements in China and South Korea. Manufacturing News | Manufacturing Dive
China's $138 Billion Investment in Robotics: China has launched a state-backed fund to advance its robotics industry, aiming to address labor shortages and enhance its position in the global market. Investor's Business Daily
🌍 5. International Robotics News
Floki and Rice Robotics Launch AI Companion Robot: Hong Kong-based Rice Robotics, in partnership with Floki, has introduced the Minibot M1, an AI-powered companion robot designed to support everyday tasks and foster emotional interaction with users. NonStop Local Tri-Cities/Yakima
NASA Showcases Robotics at FIRST Championship: At the 2025 FIRST Robotics World Championship in Houston, NASA presented lunar rovers and robotic arms, engaging with student teams and industry leaders to inspire the next generation of explorers. NASA
💬 6. Quote of the Week
“The robots of tomorrow won’t just follow instructions—they’ll understand our goals and help us reach them.”
— Fei-Fei Li, Stanford AI Lab Director
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