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Can Pepper the robot be a good playmate?

Researchers found that humanoid robots like Pepper can make good playmates in cooperative modes with natural pace and order of play. However, competitive gameplay led to frustration due to robot's stiffness and overzealousness.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEntertainment Computing·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2026

Robots learn to feel what vision misses

Researchers have developed a complementary perception strategy combining visual localization with tactile mapping for robots to locate and read object surface features. The system uses a single RGB-Depth camera and soft pressure sensor array to identify object position, size, and geometry through vision and tactile scanning, respectively.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateApr 22, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Wristband enables wearers to control a robotic hand with their own movements

Researchers at MIT have developed an ultrasound wristband that precisely tracks hand movements, allowing users to control a robotic hand or manipulate virtual objects. The device produces high-quality images of the wrist's muscles and tendons, which are then translated into specific hand positions, enabling precise movement control.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 25, 2026

NASA robot’s 10-year mission complete as uni marks rare feat

Researchers have advanced humanoid robot control, motion planning, and perception using Valkyrie, a 10-year mission robot developed by NASA. The university will continue research with Talos, a 1.75-metre-tall robot, to study human-robot cooperation and adapt to changing environments.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateMar 6, 2026

Eye-inspired artificial skin lets robots feel before they touch

The new dynamic shielding layer allows the sensor to focus on specific areas when needed, achieving a 104.56% increase in detection depth. The sensor can also detect approaching objects from over 90mm away, providing a vital split-second for robots to avoid collisions.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMar 5, 2026
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Do children imitate communication manners of machines? Experiment on children's response to polite vs. commanding robot

In a study by SWPS University, researchers found that children interact with polite robots almost always respond politely. Younger children and girls are more likely to anthropomorphise the robot, suggesting social cues in interactions between children and robots are crucial for positive learning outcomes.

SourceSWPS University·JournalComputers & Education·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2025

Are we ready for robot caregivers? The answer is a cautious “yes, if...”

A survey of 4,890 participants found that people are open to using home-care robots as long as they view them beneficially. Collaboration between users and developers is crucial for adoption, with emphasis on ethical considerations. Robots may play a significant role in addressing Japan's aging population and social healthcare challenges.

SourceChiba University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateNov 5, 2025

Humans sense a collaborating robot as part of their “extended” body

Researchers discovered that humans treat a robotic hand as part of their body schema when working together on tasks, particularly when the robot's gestures are synchronized with those of humans. The study paves the way for better-designed robots that can interact more intuitively with humans.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

The robot will see you now

New humanoid surgical robots offer a solution to the growing healthcare labor shortage, allowing for more efficient surgeries and reduced burnout among doctors. By taking on routine tasks, these robots can free up surgeons to focus on more complex procedures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Robotics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 9, 2025

AI for Good Global Summit 2025 - Exclusive press tour (ITU/United Nations)

The AI for Good Global Summit 2025 will showcase AI innovations delivering better healthcare and education, reducing disaster risks, ensuring water and food security, and bolstering economic resilience. The event, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), features talks from AI leaders and 100+ demos.

SourceInternational Telecommunication Union·DateJun 30, 2025

Researchers at IIT have demonstrated that a humanoid robot can fly

Researchers at IIT have successfully demonstrated the first flight of a humanoid robot, iRonCub3, which can lift off the floor and maintain stability. The robot's AI-powered control system enables it to handle high-speed turbulent airflows, extreme temperatures, and complex dynamics.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Ping pong bot returns shots with high-speed precision

Researchers at MIT created a table tennis bot that can return shots with high-speed precision, achieving a hit rate of 88% in tests. The technology could be adapted to improve the speed and responsiveness of humanoid robots for search-and-rescue operations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 8, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

How to make robots more lifelike

Researchers created a measurement scale to assess robot human likeness, revealing four key qualities: appearance, emotional capacity, social intelligence, and self-understanding. To seem lifelike, robots must exhibit these traits, with self-understanding being the most challenging aspect to simulate.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Service Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 9, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Learning dance moves could help humanoid robots work better with humans

A humanoid robot has been trained to learn and perform various expressive movements, including simple dance routines and gestures. The enhanced expressiveness and agility of the robot pave the way for improving human-robot interactions in settings such as factory assembly lines, hospitals, and homes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 11, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Acting for a common goal with humanoid robots

Researchers found that humans feel jointly a sense of agency with humanoid robots when they perceive them as intentional and social agents. This teamwork is more likely to occur when the robot displays human-like behavior and emotions.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalAdvanced Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Robots face the future

The team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi, created a layer of skin that can bind to complex forms of humanoid robots, granting them increased mobility and self-healing abilities. The research has potential applications in the cosmetics industry, medical research, and robotics.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

Robots' sense of touch could be as fast as humans

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed an artificial tactile system that can detect pressure by touch in a similar way to the human nervous system. The technology has the potential to restore lost functionality to patients after a stroke, as well as enhance interactions between humans and robots.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Shuffling robot uses biological muscle to move and spin

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a two-legged biohybrid robot capable of walking and pivoting underwater. The robot uses lab-grown skeletal muscle tissue to move its legs, achieving efficient and silent movements. Future iterations aim to develop thicker muscles with nutrient supplies to enable robots to walk on land.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

UBC engineers develop breakthrough ‘robot skin’ in collaboration with Honda researchers

A new soft sensor developed by UBC and Honda researchers enables touch sensitivity and dexterity in robots, allowing them to pick up fragile objects like an egg or a glass of water. The sensor uses weak electric fields to sense objects, even at a distance, making it suitable for adoption in robots that interact with people.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2023

Robot preachers get less respect, fewer donations

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that exposure to robot preachers can undermine religious commitment and reduce donations. Participants rated robot preachers as less credible than human priests, with smaller donations also reported.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateJul 24, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Could AI-powered robot “companions” combat human loneliness?

A new report suggests that AI-powered robot companions could alleviate the loneliness epidemic and its associated health risks. Companion robots have already shown promise in reducing stress and promoting physical and mental well-being in socially isolated older adults.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Robotics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 12, 2023

Preschoolers prefer to learn from a competent robot than an incompetent human, Concordia study shows

A new study published in the Journal of Cognition and Development found that preschoolers aged three and five prefer learning from a competent robot over an incompetent human. The research, conducted by Concordia University researchers, used humanoid robots to teach children about unfamiliar objects. Five-year-olds were more likely to ...

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Cognition and Development·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Interactive cyber-physical human: generating contact-rich whole-body motions

The iCPH platform combines physical and cyber elements to capture human motions, using musculoskeletal analysis and machine learning. It generates contact motion networks for humanoid robots and simulates human behaviors, enabling smooth interactions with humans.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 6, 2023

Uncanny valley for interactive social agents: an experimental study

This study evaluates the uncanny valley theory through human interactions with four human-like entities: a voice assistant, child-sized robot, virtual human, and life-sized humanoid robot. The results show that anthropomorphic robots are most liked, while the 'uncanny valley' effect is not observed.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateDec 9, 2022

Human-like features in robot behavior: Response time variability can be perceived as human-like

A study published in Science Robotics journal reveals that humans are unable to distinguish between a humanoid robot's response time variability and that of a human when interacting with the robot. This finding suggests robots can exhibit human-like behavior, raising questions about the blurring line between humans and machines.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Scientists craft living human skin for robots

Researchers have developed a method to create living human skin on robots, providing a realistic texture and self-healing properties. The skin is made up of collagen and human dermal fibroblasts, which conform to the robot's surface and can even repair wounds with the help of a collagen bandage.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

Art meets 5G: Digital experiments held at art museums in Turin

The collaboration between public and private organizations has led to innovative applications in tourism and culture sectors. Visitors can interact with a humanoid robot and solve puzzles using Meta Quest visors connected to the 5G network, exploring artworks and moving virtual objects.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2022

Electronic skin anticipates and perceives touch from different directions for the first time

Researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology and Leibniz IFW Dresden create a new approach for miniaturizing soft sensor units with integrated artificial hairs. They successfully integrate the 3D magnetic field sensors with magnetically rooted fine hairs into an artificial e-skin, enabling precise spatial arrangement and mass pro...

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022

Introducing Nikola, the emotional android kid

Researchers from RIKEN created Nikola, an android child that can convey six basic emotions through facial expressions. The study tested the quality of these expressions and found that humans can recognize them with varying accuracy.

SourceRIKEN·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 15, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Faster path planning for rubble-roving robots

Researchers at University of Michigan develop faster path planning approach for rubble-roving robots, enabling them to find stable paths in treacherous terrain more efficiently. The new algorithm outperformed traditional methods in success and total time to plan, with an 84% success rate in virtual experiments.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAutonomous Robots·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

A touch from a conversing robot is linked to positive emotional state

A study published in PLOS ONE found that participants who were touched by a humanoid robot during conversation reported a better emotional state. Those who received non-functional touch from the robot were more likely to comply with requests and exhibit positive behavioral responses, suggesting potential for robots to boost motivation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 5, 2021

A study predicts smooth interaction between humans and robots

A study by Tampere University found that making eye contact with a humanoid robot evokes strong physiological reactions, including arousal and positive emotional responses. The results suggest that interaction between humans and social robots may be surprisingly seamless, as people treat robots instinctively as if they could see them.

SourceTampere University·JournalBiological Psychology·DateDec 7, 2020

ONR Robotics enter the COVID-19 fight

The ONR robotics program has deployed a decontamination robot using short-wave ultraviolet (UVC) light to combat Covid-19. The robot's mechanical arm can reposition UVC lamps over surfaces, reducing human exposure and enabling autonomous disinfection.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateOct 19, 2020

What is your attitude towards a humanoid robot? Your brain activity can tell us!

Scientists have found a correlation between brain activity and attitudes towards humanoid robots, with distinct neural patterns predicting people's bias in attributing intentionality. This study contributes to understanding engagement with robots and can inform the future acceptance of robots in healthcare applications.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 30, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Researchers use machine learning to teach robots how to trek through unknown terrains

A team of Australian researchers has designed a reliable strategy for testing physical abilities of humanoid robots using machine learning methods and algorithms. The findings have promising implications in the broad use of humanoid robots in fields such as healthcare, education, disaster response, and entertainment.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateAug 23, 2019

Seeing through a robot's eyes helps those with profound motor impairments

A new interface system using augmented reality technology enables individuals with severe motor impairments to control a humanoid robot, allowing them to perform routine personal care tasks and interact with their environment. The system has shown promising results in improving the quality of life for users.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 15, 2019

Teaching robots to sort out their issues

UMass Lowell researchers aim to develop methods for robots to assess their performance in real-time, enabling better task completion and increased efficiency. The SUCCESS project will utilize humanoid robots like Baxter to evaluate their abilities and limitations, leading to improved human-robot collaboration and trust.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateJun 19, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Humans can empathize with robots

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology found that humans can empathize with humanoid robots in perceived pain. However, the beginning of the top-down process of empathy is weaker for robots than for humans. This study contributes to the development of human-friendly robots whom we feel sympathy for and comfortable with.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2015

Off to the future with a new soccer robot

Researchers from the University of Bonn have developed a new humanoid robot called NimbRo-OP, which is designed to facilitate research on humanoids. The robot's open-source design plan and source code aim to enable other researchers to use it as a basis for their work.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·DateOct 30, 2012

Robots Take The First Step Towards Learning By Imitation

Researchers created a computer simulation to help robots learn by imitation, using virtual android Adonis to teach the macarena dance. The system demonstrates that imitation can make robots more flexible and effective in learning any task.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJul 15, 1998
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.