Waymo Seeks $10 Billion Funding at $100 Billion Valuation, UPS Invests $120 Million in Robot Technology, and NVIDIA Advances Robotaxi AI Safety

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In this edition of the Robotics Brief, we're diving into the latest advancements and strategic moves in the world of robotics and AI. Unitree Robotics has launched a public beta for its humanoid robot app store, aiming to create a standardized platform for robot functionalities. Meanwhile, Atomathic has introduced AISIR for Radar™, a cutting-edge AI technology designed to enhance radar perception in autonomous vehicles, particularly in challenging environments.

Additionally, Scientific Systems has successfully tested its OPTIMUS autonomy software in maritime operations, demonstrating its capability to autonomously manage complex tasks with unmanned surface vessels. On the investment front, UPS is making a significant $120 million investment in robot technology to boost automation and efficiency in its delivery operations. These stories highlight the ongoing innovation and investment in the robotics and AI sectors, setting the stage for future developments.

Unitree Robotics Tests Humanoid Robot App Store

Unitree Robotics has started public beta testing for a humanoid robot app store, aiming to standardize robot functionalities with a user-friendly interface. Read more

Atomathic Unveils AISIR for Radar

Atomathic has launched AISIR for Radar™, a new AI technology designed to enhance radar perception in autonomous driving, particularly in complex environments. The company also published a white paper discussing the limitations of traditional radar systems and how AISIR addresses these issues. Read more

Scientific Systems Tests AI Software for Unmanned Vessels

Scientific Systems announced the successful completion of a test for its OPTIMUS autonomy software, which enabled unmanned surface vessels to perform complex operations autonomously. Read more

UPS Invests $120 Million in Robot Technology

UPS is investing $120 million in 400 truck-unloading robots from Pickle Robot Co. to improve automation and reduce delivery bottlenecks as part of a larger strategy. Read more

Cyngn Expands Autonomous Vehicle Deployment with G&J Pepsi

Cyngn has announced a new purchase order from G&J Pepsi for expanding its DriveMod Tugger program, indicating a commitment to scaling autonomous technology across the bottler's distribution network. Read more

Safe Pro Group Files Patent for AI Algorithm in Drone Detection

Safe Pro Group Inc. has filed a patent for an AI computer vision algorithm to improve detection accuracy of explosive threats in drone imagery, enhancing their intellectual property for U.S. Army operations. Read more

RoboParty Secures Consecutive Seed Funding Rounds

RoboParty, a startup from Shanghai, has completed a Seed+ financing round shortly after a multi-million-dollar Seed round. The funds will enhance its open-source humanoid robotics platform and grow its developer ecosystem. Read more

Quantum Systems and Frontline Robotics Launch Drone Production in Europe

On December 15, 2025, Quantum Systems and Frontline Robotics announced a joint venture to mass-produce drones for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, marking Europe's first fully automated drone production line. Read more

Waymo Seeks $10 Billion Funding at $100 Billion Valuation

Waymo, Alphabet's autonomous driving unit, is reportedly in discussions to raise over $10 billion, potentially valuing the company at around $100 billion. The funding round is expected to finalize early next year. Read more

Fujitsu to Present AI Tech at CES 2026

Fujitsu Limited will display its mobility and physical AI technology at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to showcase AI-driven solutions. Read more

Nebius Awards $1.5 Million in Compute Credits at AI Summit

On December 9, 2025, Nebius held the Robotics & Physical AI Awards and Summit in Mountain View, California, where 16 startups received $1.5 million in compute credits. The event included live demos and expert discussions. Read more

Skana Robotics Unveils AI for Underwater Communication

Skana Robotics has developed a new AI communication system for its SeaSphere software, allowing underwater robots to communicate over long distances without surfacing. This innovation is aimed at improving defense operations and securing underwater infrastructure. Read more

XVIII Airborne Corps Tests AI in Scarlet Dragon Exercise

The XVIII Airborne Corps conducted the Scarlet Dragon 26-1 exercise at Fort Bragg, focusing on testing AI technologies for military applications, including drone technologies and data-sharing systems. Read more

NVIDIA Advances Robotaxi AI Safety

NVIDIA is enhancing the safety of robotaxi AI with its OpenUSD, Omniverse, and Halos framework. This initiative standardizes simulation and validation processes to improve autonomous vehicle deployment. Read more

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Waymo Seeks $10 Billion Funding at $100 Billion Valuation, UPS Invests $120 Million in Robot Technology, and NVIDIA Advances Robotaxi AI Safety - Robotics Brief #47

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