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Search results for International Federation of Robotics

Industry

China bets on robotics as next AI play, pouring policy and funds into humanoids

China is positioning robotics as a core pillar of its AI strategy in its next five-year plan, shifting emphasis from software to hardware. It plans to unveil next-generation robots at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference. Analysts expect large subsidies and rising private investment, while China’s production share is seen as dominant. Industry groups and research institutes say gaps remain between demos and real-world use, and costs and dependencies persist.

AI & Enterprise

Japan to invest 100 trillion won in physical AI through 2040, make humanoid robots national strategy

The Japanese government has announced a large-scale investment plan to spend a total 10.5 trillion yen, about 100 trillion won, by 2040 to foster the physical AI industry. It aims to promote humanoid robots and automation as a national growth strategy to respond to labour shortages driven by low birth rates and population ageing. The investment will target 17 strategic industries designated by the government and expand R&D into a state-led programme.

Industry

Humanoid robot demos draw attention but experts say too early to replace humans

Humanoid robots are rapidly improving in their ability to perform tasks, but analysts and researchers say it will take years before they can meaningfully replace human labor. Demos by robotics firm Figure AI drew attention, yet questions remain over adaptability, reliability and costs in real-world settings. Experts say robots are most likely to replace repetitive physical work in structured environments, while AI may more readily replace administrative tasks. Charging, maintenance, safety and regulation are cited as barriers to broader deployment.