Table of Contents
Story 1: Texas A&M Students Build AI Robotic Dog for Disaster Response
Hands-on learning meets quadruped robots | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Students engineer autonomous quadruped for emergency zones | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Texas A&M University engineering students have developed an AI-powered robotic dog capable of navigating disaster zones using memory-based navigation and voice commands. The four-legged robot, created by master’s student Sandun Vitharana and doctoral student Sanjaya Mallikarachchi, uses camera input and artificial intelligence to remember previously traveled paths and identify objects.
The robot combines reactive collision avoidance with high-level planning using a multimodal large language model that analyzes visual data. This memory-based system allows efficient navigation without repeatedly exploring the same areas. The project received support from the National Science Foundation and was presented at the 22nd International Conference on Ubiquitous Robots.
Beyond emergency response, potential applications include navigation assistance for people with visual impairments, warehouse operations, and reconnaissance in hazardous areas. The robot represents an important step in making advanced robotics accessible for real-world disaster scenarios where human responders face significant risks.
Key points:
- Uses memory and voice commands for autonomous navigation
- Developed with NSF funding by Texas A&M engineering students
- Combines reactive responses with multimodal AI for situational awareness
- Applications extend beyond disasters to accessibility and industrial use
Story 2: Richtech Robotics’ Wheeled Humanoid Dex Challenges Legged Designs
Mobile manipulator prioritizes battery life over bipedal locomotion | The Bolt and the Byte
Richtech Robotics has unveiled Dex, a wheeled two-armed mobile manipulator that challenges the current emphasis on bipedal humanoid robots. The publicly traded company chose wheels over legs specifically to address battery life concerns, with Dex capable of operating continuously for over four hours while carrying heavier payloads than legged alternatives.
Company president Matt Casella explained that while bipedal robots struggle with limited battery life and constant balance requirements, Dex’s wheeled platform maintains stability in human environments and consumes less energy. The robot integrates dual-arm manipulation with an NVIDIA Jetson Thor processor for real-time AI vision and decision-making.
Richtech has partnered with NVIDIA to leverage Isaac Sim workflows for enterprise-level training simulations. The company operates on a robot-as-a-service model with over 450 deployments, though the first Dex customer announcement is still pending. Richtech aims to scale to over 1,000 active deployments.
Key points:
- Operates 4+ hours continuously vs. limited battery life of bipedal robots
- Uses NVIDIA Jetson Thor for AI processing
- Wheeled design chosen for practical industrial deployment
- Targets hospitality transitioning to industrial settings
Story 3: Michigan School District Invests $32,700 in Humanoid Robot for Education
Chippewa Valley Schools prepare students for AI-robot future | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Chippewa Valley Schools in Michigan approved a $32,700 purchase of a TRON 1 Robot for its mechatronics program at Dakota High School. Teacher Jomo Walker, who instructs both Dakota and Chippewa Valley high school students, requested the humanoid to prepare students for an AI-driven technological future.
The robot can perform motion sensing, navigate stairs, and potentially escort students in wheelchairs to class. Walker emphasized that robots are “officially here” and students need hands-on experience to operate and repair these machines. His teaching approach includes having students completely disassemble the robot to understand its mechanics.
The district previously purchased a Unitree quadruped robot, but Walker wanted something more humanoid for broader applications. The TRON 1 Robot is expected to arrive at the beginning of 2026, marking a significant investment in preparing students for careers involving robotics across various industries.
Key points:
- $32,700 investment in TRON 1 humanoid for high school program
- Can navigate stairs and perform motion sensing
- Students learn by completely disassembling and reassembling units
- Anticipated arrival in early 2026
Story 4: AMC Robotics Goes Public with Quadruped Security Robots
Stock surges 170% after NASDAQ debut for surveillance bot maker | The Bolt and the Byte
AMC Robotics Corporation made its public debut on NASDAQ through a SPAC merger, with shares surging as much as 170% in mid-December trading sessions. The American company specializes in AI-powered quadruped security robots for warehouse and industrial facility patrol.
After an initial 30% drop on its first trading day, the stock rallied significantly, making it one of the most discussed stocks on trading platforms like Stocktwits. The company’s robots perform autonomous patrols, real-time anomaly detection, and incident response with photo and video documentation.
The public listing provides AMC with capital to accelerate commercialization of its robotic technology. The timing coincides with broader enthusiasm in AI and robotics, amplified by developments from Tesla and other manufacturers. However, as a small-scale company reliant on equity financing, AMC faces significant volatility and implementation challenges including high costs.
Key points:
- Stock surged 170% at peak after December 10 debut
- Specializes in quadruped patrol robots for industrial security
- Founded in 2014, pivoted from security cameras to robotics
- High volatility reflects small-scale operations and limited workforce
Story 5: iRobot’s 35-Year Journey Ends in Bankruptcy Filing
Roomba maker enters Chapter 11 after failed Amazon acquisition | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
iRobot officially began Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings this week, marking a dramatic turn for the company that sold over 50 million robots worldwide and brought robotics into mainstream homes. The restructuring is expected to conclude by February 2026, with Roomba operations continuing normally throughout the process.
Founded in 1990 by MIT engineers Rodney Brooks, Colin Angle, and Helen Greiner, iRobot initially focused on military and space robots before launching the Roomba in 2002. The company achieved rapid success, selling one million Roombas in just over two years.
Amazon’s proposed $1.7 billion acquisition in 2022 was terminated in 2024 due to regulatory scrutiny. Following the deal’s collapse, iRobot laid off nearly 50% of its workforce throughout 2024. Chinese contract manufacturer Santrum, which took on iRobot’s $350 million debt, plans to acquire the company through the bankruptcy process.
Key points:
- Over 50 million robots sold in 35-year history
- Pioneered mass consumer robotics with Roomba in 2002
- Failed Amazon acquisition led to financial struggles
- Chinese creditor Santrum to acquire through Chapter 11
Story 6: Chinese Startup Noetix Unveils Female-Styled Humanoid Receptionist
Hobbs W1 combines bionic head with dexterous hands | The Bolt and the Byte
Chinese robotics startup Noetix has introduced Hobbs W1, a female-styled humanoid service robot designed as a “professional scene all-rounder” for public-facing roles. The robot features a lifelike bionic head with interactive display, 6-degree-of-freedom hands, and 5-degree-of-freedom robotic arms.
Hobbs W1 can recognize emotions, hold natural conversations, synchronize information in real time, and perform light physical tasks like handing over items. The robot’s autonomous navigation allows it to map and move through complex indoor environments while performing reception and guidance duties.
Noetix emphasizes that Hobbs W1 is designed to support, not replace, human workers by handling routine tasks consistently. In October, Noetix unveiled its child-sized humanoid Bumi, priced under $1,400, following a $41 million funding round. The company achieved breakthrough pricing through vertical integration, structural redesign, and domestic supply chains.
Key points:
- Features lifelike bionic head and dexterous manipulation
- Autonomous navigation for reception and guidance tasks
- Suited for hospitality, retail, education, and corporate environments
- Built by startup that recently launched sub-$1,400 humanoid
Story 7: Figure AI’s Humanoid Sorts Packages for 60 Minutes Straight
Video demonstrates sustained performance in real warehouse tasks | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Figure AI released an hour-long video showing its humanoid robot continuously sorting packages onto a conveyor belt, responding to criticism about robots’ ability to handle “boring” tasks. The demonstration shows the Figure robot maintaining consistent performance while placing various bags and boxes with labels facing down.
CEO Brett Adcock posted the video after an AI commentator questioned whether Figure’s robot could sort “10,000 messy packages without a single error.” The robot’s nimble fingers grasp each package with precision, uses onboard intelligence to locate labels, and turns packages face down onto the conveyor belt with a reported 99% connection success rate.
Figure recently concluded an 11-month deployment of Figure 02 humanoid robots at a BMW plant in South Carolina, where they loaded more than 90,000 parts onto production lines for over 30,000 X3 vehicles. The company focuses on developing general-purpose humanoid robots to eliminate unsafe, tedious jobs.
Key points:
- Maintained consistent sorting performance for 60 minutes
- Achieved 99% success rate in package handling
- Deployed at BMW plant for 11 months
Demonstrates viability for sustained industrial tasks
Story 8: CATL Launches World’s First Humanoid-Powered Battery Line
Xiaomo robot replaces workers in high-voltage testing processes | The Bolt and the Byte
CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, has deployed humanoid robots in battery pack production at its Luoyang facility, marking the first large-scale use of humanoids in this sector. The robot, named Xiaomo (Little Mo), precisely executes tasks like battery connector insertion in the final testing stages before packs leave the line.
Xiaomo replaces human operators in EOL and DCR processes that traditionally involved connecting test plugs carrying hundreds of volts. The robot incorporates a Vision-Language-Action model for environmental perception and task execution, maintaining a connection success rate exceeding 99% with cycle times matching skilled workers.
Facing continuous production for multiple battery models, Xiaomo’s daily workload has tripled compared to manual labor while demonstrating exceptional consistency. The robot was developed by Spirit AI, a Hangzhou-based company founded in 2024 and backed by CATL. CATL maintained its global leadership position with 38.1% market share from January to October 2025.
Key points:
- World’s first large-scale humanoid deployment in battery production
- 99%+ success rate in high-voltage connector tasks
- Daily workload triple that of manual labor
- Developed by CATL-backed Spirit AI startup
Story 9: Investors Warn Humanoid Robotics May Be Next AI Bubble
Capital flows faster than commercial readiness, analysts caution | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Investment firm Aneli Capital warns that humanoid robotics is attracting excessive venture capital before establishing sustainable business models, potentially pushing the sector into speculative territory. While AI captured more than half of global VC funding this year, industrial humanoid robotics recorded 17 deals in the most recent quarter—more than any other AI category.
Aneli Capital partner Daiva Rakauskaitė noted that while established industrial and logistics robots generate revenue, humanoids cannot yet prove commercial value. China’s economic planning authorities have already warned that the humanoid robotics industry must balance rapid expansion with asset bubble risks.
CB Insights reports that humanoid robotics faces persistent challenges in real-time decision-making, dexterity, system reliability, and cost. These constraints restrict early deployments to controlled environments like factories and warehouses. Aneli Capital advocates a revenue-first approach, prioritizing clear monetization strategies and realistic deployment goals over momentum-driven growth.
Key points:
- Humanoid robotics led AI funding with 17 Q3 deals
- Limited real-world deployment despite high investment
- China issues bubble warning for domestic industry
- Revenue models remain largely unproven
Story 10: Chinese Humanoid Makers Ramp Production Despite Technical Hurdles
Agibot hits 5,000 units as firms race toward commercialization | The Bolt and the Byte
Shanghai-based Agibot announced it has produced 5,000 humanoid robots since its 2023 founding, placing the Tencent-backed startup among the world’s biggest producers by shipments. With global humanoid shipments estimated at 18,000–20,000 units in 2025, any manufacturer producing thousands of units significantly impacts the market.
Agibot’s 32-year-old co-founder Peng Zhihui, a renowned engineer who previously worked at Huawei and Oppo, envisions robots with “general intelligence” rather than task-specific functions. The company’s robots currently handle simpler tasks like dancing and tai chi, as well as factory patrols and specialized manufacturing tasks.
Competitor Galbot, backed by Meituan and CATL, focuses on retail and industrial applications with targeted training models. The company prioritizes wheeled humanoids for practical deployment rather than diverse form factors. Major challenges include Moravec’s paradox—giving robots the perceptual and motor skills of a one-year-old child remains extremely difficult despite achieving adult-level cognitive performance.
Key points:
- Agibot reached 5,000 units produced since 2023
- Global 2025 shipments estimated at 18,000–20,000 units
- Galbot focuses on retail sector deployments
- Moravec’s paradox continues to challenge development
Story 11: PaXini Debuts Humanoid with Ultra-Tactile DexH13 Hands
Advanced manipulation opens new automation use cases | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Chinese robotics startup PaXini has launched a new humanoid robot equipped with ultra-tactile DexH13 hands that significantly enhance dexterous manipulation capabilities. The development represents a major advancement in tactile sensing, crucial for real-world applications requiring human-like touch and precision.
The DexH13 hands enable force detection as precise as 0.1 Newtons, surpassing current standards in robotic grippers according to IEEE benchmarks. This precision allows for nuanced manipulation critical for tasks requiring human-like touch, though integration with existing AI frameworks requires custom neural networks trained on extensive datasets.
The advancement opens new possibilities for automation in manufacturing and healthcare, where delicate handling is essential. In warehouse automation, the DexH13 hands could enable robots to handle fragile items without damage, addressing error rates that currently hover around 5-10% in automated systems.
Key points:
- DexH13 hands detect force as precise as 0.1 Newtons
- Surpasses current robotic gripper standards
- Opens applications in manufacturing and healthcare
- Requires custom neural networks for integration
Story 12: Unitree Launches Humanoid Robot App Store for Developers
Platform creates ecosystem for AI-powered robot applications | The Bolt and the Byte
Unitree has released a humanoid App Store, providing developers with a scalable ecosystem to deploy AI-powered applications for robots. The platform mirrors successful models like Apple’s App Store, potentially accelerating innovation and creating new monetization opportunities in robotics.
The App Store uses open-source APIs with low-code tools to facilitate app development, though security vulnerabilities must be addressed through rigorous vetting processes. Developers can create niche applications for tasks like elderly care or industrial maintenance, leading to subscription-based revenue streams.
This approach could disrupt how robots are deployed and utilized, transforming them from single-purpose machines into platforms for continuous capability expansion. The ecosystem model addresses one of robotics’ biggest challenges: the high cost of custom development for specific use cases.
Key points:
- Creates app marketplace similar to mobile platforms
- Uses open-source APIs for developer access
- Enables subscription-based revenue models
- Security vetting remains critical challenge
Story 13: Google Launches Gemini Real-Time Speech Translation for Robots
AI language processing enables seamless cross-lingual communication | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
Google has introduced Gemini, a real-time speech-to-speech translation system demonstrating major advancements in natural language processing for enterprise and consumer robotics applications. The feature allows seamless, instantaneous language conversion during conversations with latency under 500 milliseconds.
The system employs transformer-based models for speech-to-speech conversion, representing a significant leap from previous versions. For businesses in e-commerce and customer service, real-time translation enables expansion into non-English speaking markets, with potential revenue increases averaging 20% according to industry research.
Language barriers currently cost companies an estimated $1.2 trillion annually in lost productivity globally. Gemini’s translation capabilities address this challenge for human-robot interactions across international operations. Cloud-based processing reduces on-device requirements, though data privacy compliance remains essential for deployment.
Key points:
- Sub-500 millisecond latency for real-time translation
- Uses transformer-based neural models
- Addresses $1.2 trillion annual productivity loss from language barriers
- Cloud-based processing with privacy compliance requirements
Story 14: Symbotic Stock Soars 150% as Executive Sells Shares
AI robotics company’s backlog hits $22.5 billion | The Bolt and the Byte
Symbotic’s Chief Accounting Officer sold 1,666 shares in November after the warehouse automation company’s stock surged over 150% in 2025. The shares were sold at $58.18 per share, representing 75.4% of the executive’s direct holdings, though the stock has since fallen 32% from its late November all-time high.
Symbotic’s backlog reached $22.5 billion as of September 2025—nearly 10 times its fiscal 2025 revenue—reflecting massive demand for its full-service warehouse automation systems. The company recently entered the healthcare sector by signing medical supplies distributor Medline as a customer, expanding beyond its primary retail focus with major customers like Walmart.
The insider sale reflects profit-taking after the stock’s stunning rally, though analysts recommend holding given the company’s growth prospects. Symbotic provides integrated robotics and software systems that drive measurable efficiency gains for large-scale retail and wholesale customers seeking to modernize distribution centers.
Key points:
- Stock up 150% in 2025 before recent 32% pullback
- $22.5 billion backlog is 10x fiscal 2025 revenue
- Expanded into healthcare with Medline partnership
- Insider sold 75% of direct holdings at peak prices
Story 15: Hong Kong University Partners with GPTX to Boost AI Robotics
UniVenture Program targets student-led technology startups | Weekly Robotics News | The Bolt and the Byte
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and GPTX Investment Management Limited have established a strategic partnership to drive innovation across AI, robotics, and healthcare through the HKUST UniVenture Program. The initiative will provide investment support, business mentorship, and industry networking for student-led technology startups.
GPTX will invest a minimum of HKD $750,000 (approximately USD $96,000) in equity per selected startup to accelerate growth. The program initially supports graduates of HKUST’s MPhil in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship program, with plans to expand to all HKUST student-led technology startups.
The partnership leverages GPTX’s experience in industrial investment and capital operation, including managing a Pan-AI industry fund and collaborating with the Hong Kong Generative AI R&D Center. HKUST has consistently provided platforms for aspiring innovators, from its pioneering Entrepreneurship Center established 26 years ago to its One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition.
Key points:
- Minimum HKD $750,000 equity investment per startup
- Targets AI, robotics, and healthcare ventures
- Initially supports MPhil in TIE graduates
26-year history of entrepreneurship support at HKUST
Conclusion
This week’s developments show a robotics sector moving quickly but unevenly. From robotic dogs entering classrooms and disaster zones to humanoid robots pushing into factories, offices, and public spaces, the pace of experimentation is accelerating worldwide. China, Japan, and North America are all betting on different paths, shaped by labor needs, education priorities, and industrial strategy.
At the same time, investor caution and expert skepticism highlight an important reality: robotics progress is real, but timelines and expectations must stay grounded. Power systems, reliability, and economic viability remain just as critical as AI breakthroughs. Taken together, this edition of The Bolt and the Byte reflects a robotics industry that is expanding its reach while still defining what practical success truly looks like. For readers following weekly robotics news, the signal is clear—momentum is strong, but maturity will take time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What were the biggest robotics trends this week?
Humanoid robots dominated headlines, particularly in China and Japan, alongside growing attention to robotic dogs in education and emergency response. Battery technology and investor sentiment also played a major role.
Why are humanoid robots getting so much attention right now?
Humanoid robots promise to work in human-designed environments, making them attractive for labor shortages and service roles. However, many experts caution that real-world deployment is still limited.
Are robotic dogs becoming more common outside research labs?
Yes. This week’s news shows robotic dogs being used in classrooms and disaster-response research, signaling broader adoption beyond industrial testing.
Is there concern about a robotics investment bubble?
Some investors and analysts believe humanoid robotics may be overhyped in the short term. While funding is rising quickly, commercial viability and scalability remain open questions.
Why is battery technology important for robotics?
Advanced robots require reliable, safe, and high-density power sources. Companies like CATL entering robot-specific battery development show how critical energy systems are to robotics growth.
How do these stories affect the future of robotics jobs?
Robotics is likely to change job roles rather than eliminate them outright. Education-focused deployments suggest growing demand for robotics literacy, maintenance, and system integration skills.
What should readers watch next in weekly robotics news?
Key signals include real-world deployments of humanoid robots, regulatory responses, energy safety standards, and whether education-driven robotics programs translate into workforce readiness.
Sources
Weekly news December 19 2025
- https://www.sootoday.com/jobs-of-the-future/go-fetch-spot-the-robotic-dog-teaches-tech-students-new-tricks-11613370
- https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/texas-am-students-unveil-ai-robotic-dog-designed-to-navigate-disaster-zones
- https://www.therobotreport.com/richtech-dex-demonstrates-potential-wheeled-mobile-manipulators/
- https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/17/business/china-robot-unitree-ubtech.html
- https://www.macombdaily.com/2025/12/16/the-future-is-here-chippewa-valley-schools-invest-in-humanoid-robot/
- https://mugglehead.com/amc-robotics-shines-on-the-nasdaq-after-public-debut/
- https://www.therobotreport.com/a-look-at-irobot-35-year-robotics-journey/
- https://interestingengineering.com/ai-robotics/noetix-unveils-humanoid-receptionist-lifelike-face
- https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/science-friday/articles/whats-the-reality-behind-the-humanoid-robot-hype
- https://interestingengineering.com/ai-robotics/noetix-unveils-humanoid-receptionist-lifelike-face
