Latest news with #SoftBankRobotics
ME Construction
4 days ago
- Business
- ME Construction
HITEK AI collaborates with SoftBank Robotics and launches Robot as a Service
Technology HITEK AI collaborates with SoftBank Robotics and launches Robot as a Service By The service integrates SoftBank's advanced robotic cleaning solutions with HITEK AI's CAFMTEK platform providing a comprehensive automated facilities management solution HITEK AI has partnered with SoftBank Robotics UK (SBR) to launch its Robot as a Service (RaaS) offering. The service integrates SoftBank's advanced robotic cleaning solutions with HITEK AI's CAFMTEK platform, providing a comprehensive automated facilities management (FM) solution. This solution aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve operational performance across various industries. The new RaaS solution is designed to empower businesses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with robotic technologies. These technologies can be integrated into their existing FM operations, streamlining processes and overall efficiency. HITEK AI combines SoftBank Robotics' robots with its CAFMTEK platform, offering a unified service that integrates robotic automation with traditional FM. This service is managed through a single, intuitive interface, providing businesses with a streamlined and efficient management solution. 'Our partnership with SoftBank Robotics aims to bring the future of automated FM to businesses across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This integration will empower organisations to operate more efficiently, reduce operational costs, and ensure high standards of service, all while contributing to government goals for digital transformation and innovation. By combining SoftBank Robotics' cutting-edge robotic solutions with HITEK AI's advanced CAFMTEK platform, this launch marks a significant step forward in the digital transformation of facilities management. With a focus on efficiency, automation, and data-driven decision-making, HITEK AI's Robot as a Service offering is poised to redefine the facilities management landscape in the UAE,' said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of HITEK AI. SoftBank will be providing two robot types. Whiz, is a commercial collaborative robot vacuum, powered by BrainOS, the advanced commercial operating system from robotics industry leader Brain Corp. This determines the best route given the surrounding environment, continuous operation for up to three hours and can cover up to 1,500sqm. Whiz is also equipped with sensors and mechanisms that enable obstacle detection, fall prevention and anomaly impact detection. Another robot, Phantas, aims to help human teams clean better, faster, and more cost-effectively, vacuuming, sweeping, scrubbing, and dust mopping, up to 5,000sqm per hour. HITEK AI's CAFMTEK system also tracks the service performance of robots, including uptime, task completion rates, and service requirements. Once integrated with HITEK AI's CAFMTEK platform, facility managers will have the ability to schedule and monitor routine and ad-hoc cleaning tasks performed by SoftBank's robots. Each robot is uniquely identified with a new project site ID and mapped to specific zones and locations within the facility. Clients can track performance metrics such as the sqm cleaned using the CAFMTEK platform, ensuring cleanliness standards with minimal human intervention. The robots are also capable of handling maintenance tasks like water replenishment and dust bag replacement, reducing operational disruptions and enhancing efficiency. With CAFMTEK's analytics dashboard, SoftBank robots provide real-time data on cleaning performance, including task completion times, battery levels, and maintenance needs. Facility managers can utilise this data to monitor a robot's performance, identify potential issues, and make data-driven decisions to optimise resource allocation and maintenance schedules. The system can automatically generate service requests when the robots require assistance, ensuring seamless operation with minimal downtime. This allows facility managers to monitor performance alongside traditional assets, ensuring that all resources are operating at peak efficiency. Performance data from robots will be visible in both CAFMTEK's mobile app and web interface, providing real-time insights for facility management teams. This integrated solution is designed to be managed entirely through the CAFMTEK mobile app and web platform. Facility managers can easily activate, monitor, and schedule robots for specific tasks, while also viewing real-time performance data and maintenance alerts, all within a single platform. This user-friendly approach ensures that businesses can fully leverage the potential of robotic technology without complex system re-configurations.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
HITEK AI launches Robot as a Service in collaboration with SoftBank Robotics
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: HITEK AI, a leading provider of AI-driven solutions in the Middle East, and part of the Farnek group of companies, has launched its Robot as a Service (RaaS) offering in partnership with SoftBank Robotics UK (SBR). This innovative service integrates SoftBank's advanced robotic cleaning solutions with HITEK AI's CAFMTEK platform, providing a comprehensive, automated facilities management (FM) solution designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve operational performance across industries. The new RaaS solution is aimed at providing businesses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with cutting-edge robotic technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into their existing FM operations. Through this collaboration, HITEK AI combines SoftBank Robotics' state-of-the-art robots with its CAFMTEK platform to offer a unified service that includes both robotic automation and traditional FM, all managed through a single, intuitive interface. 'Our partnership with SoftBank Robotics aims to bring the future of automated FM to businesses across the UAE and Saudi Arabia,' said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of HITEK AI. 'This integration will empower organisations to operate more efficiently, reduce operational costs, and ensure high standards of service, all while contributing to government goals for digital transformation and innovation.' SoftBank will be providing two robot types. Whiz, is a commercial collaborative robot vacuum, powered by BrainOS, the advanced commercial operating system from robotics industry leader Brain Corp. This determines the best route given the surrounding environment, continuous operation for up to three hours and can cover up to 1,500 sqm. Whiz is also equipped with sensors and mechanisms that enable obstacle detection, fall prevention and anomaly impact detection. Another robot, Phantas, is a powerful tool that helps human teams clean better, faster, and more cost-effectively, vacuuming, sweeping, scrubbing, and dust mopping, up to 5,000 sqm per hour. Once integrated with HITEK AI's CAFMTEK platform, facility managers will be able to schedule and monitor routine and ad-hoc cleaning tasks performed by SoftBank's robots. The robots are activated for each new project site with a unique ID and mapped to the specific zones and locations in the facility. Using the CAFMTEK platform, clients can track performance metrics such as square meters cleaned, ensuring high standards of cleanliness with minimal human intervention. The robots are also capable of handling maintenance tasks such as water replenishment and dust bag replacement, reducing operational disruption and increasing efficiency. Integrated with CAFMTEK's analytics dashboard, SoftBank robots send real-time data on cleaning performance, including task completion times, battery levels, and maintenance needs. Facility managers can use this data to track the robots' performance, identify potential issues, and make data-driven decisions to optimize resource allocation and maintenance schedules. The system can automatically generate service requests when the robots need assistance, ensuring seamless operation with minimal downtime. HITEK AI's CAFMTEK system also tracks the service performance of robots, including uptime, task completion rates, and service requirements. This allows facility managers to monitor the robots' performance alongside traditional assets, ensuring that all resources are operating at peak efficiency. Performance data from robots will be visible in both CAFMTEK's mobile app and web interface, providing real-time insights for facility management teams. This integrated solution is designed to be managed entirely through the CAFMTEK mobile app and web platform. Facility managers can easily activate, monitor, and schedule robots for specific tasks, while also viewing real-time performance data and maintenance alerts, all within a single platform. This ease of use ensures that businesses can leverage the full potential of robotic technology without complex system reconfigurations. 'By combining SoftBank Robotics' cutting-edge robotic solutions with HITEK AI's advanced CAFMTEK platform, this launch marks a significant step forward in the digital transformation of facilities management. With a focus on efficiency, automation, and data-driven decision-making, HITEK AI's Robot as a Service offering is poised to redefine the facilities management landscape in the UAE,' added Aijaz. About HITEK AI HITEK AI is a leading provider of AI-driven solutions and facilities management services in the UAE and KSA. Specializing in cutting-edge technologies, HITEK AI is committed to helping businesses achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in their operations. From AI-powered CAFM systems to predictive maintenance and robotics, HITEK AI continues to drive digital transformation across multiple industries. About SoftBank Robotics SoftBank Robotics is a global leader in the development of humanoid robots and advanced robotic solutions for a variety of industries. Their robots are designed to enhance productivity, improve customer experience, and revolutionize operations across a wide range of sectors, including retail, hospitality, and healthcare. About Farnek: Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss- owned independent total facilities management company. With a skilled workforce of more than 10,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services across several sectors: Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure, and Entertainment.
Forbes
30-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How Labor Challenges And Robotics Are Reshaping Service Operations
Robotic solutions have advanced rapidly and reached a tipping point—they're no longer just prototypes, but practical, cost-effective tools capable of handling repetitive and even complex tasks in real-world environments. Two powerful forces are transforming the way businesses approach service operations—especially when it comes to managing entry-level, hourly labor. First, there's the shifting labor landscape. With tighter immigration policies and an unpredictable labor market, companies are struggling to find reliable, affordable workers for critical frontline roles. Hiring has become more competitive, and the cost of labor continues to rise. Second, we're witnessing a robotics revolution. What once felt like science fiction is now becoming everyday reality. Robotic solutions have advanced rapidly and reached a tipping point—they're no longer just prototypes, but practical, cost-effective tools capable of handling repetitive and even complex tasks in real-world environments. Commercial cleaning 'Organizations that depend heavily on entry-level hourly labor are now facing growing pressure to rethink their operations,' said Karen Wood-Maris, VP / Head of Revenue Operations, Customer Success and Growth Marketing at SoftBank Robotics America. She was speaking on a leadership series podcast on robotic automation. 'The new mantra is finding the right resource to do the right task at the right cost. That resource might be a human, a robot, or a combination of technology-driven solutions. In this evolving landscape, the future of service operations lies in blending human strengths with the efficiency of automation—and making smart choices about who, or what, does the job best. According to Wood-Maris, one area of service operations that's especially ripe for innovation is commercial cleaning. Tasks like mopping, scrubbing, and vacuuming are physically demanding, repetitive, and have long depended on large pools of hourly workers. Across industries, however, from hospitals and schools to hotels and airports, businesses are finding it harder to fill these essential roles. Labor pools are shrinking, wages are rising, and attrition rates are climbing. On top of that, the nature of the work often leads to injuries, limited career advancement, and high turnover—all of which make it difficult to attract and retain workers. These challenges are pushing organizations to explore smarter, more strategic ways to deploy labor. By blending human labor with robotic support, companies can boost productivity, reduce strain on workers, and create more sustainable operational models. Still, while the rise of robotics offers real promise, it's not a plug-and-play fix. Companies must make a clear business case for investing in automation—and align their expectations around what optimized operations can realistically achieve. This is where financial leadership becomes critical. CFOs and other economic decision-makers need to understand not just the cost of robotic solutions, but their true value—including long-term savings, risk mitigation, and the ability to scale without being constrained by labor shortages. Wood-Maris believes that unlocking that potential requires a thoughtful approach to implementation, grounded in real-world operational needs and measurable outcomes. Robots to the rescue 'We are seeing amazing growth in the commercial cleaning sector, where robots are moving beyond the pilot stage and becoming an integral part of the workforce,' said Wood-Maris. She cited Flagship Facility Services where over 100 robots from SoftBank Robotics America have been deployed at over 15 customer locations resulting in a 30% increase in labor efficiency. However, while cleaning robots and similar technologies are gaining traction, they haven't yet eliminated the need for human labor. Many organizations still rely heavily on workers for a range of tasks. In industrial settings like manufacturing and warehousing, robotics has long been embraced for its clear impact on productivity, quality, and cost savings. But in customer-facing service industries, the equation is more nuanced. Here, the value of automation is about improving consistency, reliability, safety, and service quality. Wood-Maris explained that to fully unlock the potential of robotics in service operations, companies need to take a more strategic view of automation—one that goes beyond immediate cost-cutting and instead focuses on long-term efficiency, workforce augmentation, and enhanced customer experiences. The business case for robotics in the service industry has multiple value drivers including Reaping the benefits Leading companies adopting AI-driven autonomous robots are seeing significant benefits. Automation delivers new services, improves environmental quality, and raises customer satisfaction. SoftBank Robotics America is a pioneer in this area. Whiz, the company's AI-driven autonomous vacuum robot, is used in carpeted and hard-floor environments. It operates via "teach & repeat" workflows and is used for route programming and data analytics. 'Companies that adopt robotics today can realize near-term benefits and create a new muscle in the organization, raising the bar on operational excellence,' Wood-Maris concluded. 'These organizations will have an advantage as new robots are introduced, and their ability to optimize resources increases.' As service operations evolve, those who embrace robotics with a clear strategy and long-term vision won't just keep pace—they'll lead the way toward a more resilient, efficient, and future-ready workforce.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Entertainment Robots Presents a $5.42 Billion Market Opportunity by 2030: Insights Into the Strategies and Trends Shaping the Global Landscape
Key opportunities lie in companion robots, educational platforms, and immersive experiences at live events and in home entertainment. Emerging AI capabilities and strategic alliances offer further growth potential. Entertainment Robots Market Dublin, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Entertainment Robots Market by Product Type, Application, Distribution Channel - Global Forecast to 2030" has been added to offering. The Entertainment Robots Market is experiencing robust growth, transitioning from USD 3.38 billion in 2024 to USD 3.67 billion in 2025, with projections reaching USD 5.42 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.15%. This market research report provides a profound exploration of the rapidly evolving sector of entertainment robotics, showcasing the merger of advanced engineering with creative storytelling. As technological enhancements propel the industry, the report unveils the essential dynamics shaping this innovative market. The companies profiled in this Entertainment Robots market report include: SoftBank Robotics Holdings Corp. UBTECH Robotics Corp. Spin Master Ltd. WowWee Group Ltd. Sphero LLC Parrot SA Sony Group Corporation SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. LG Electronics Inc Shenzhen Robosen Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. Emerging Trends Redefining the Entertainment Robot Landscape The sector of entertainment robotics is marked by the convergence of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and connectivity. AI advancements have endowed robots with emotion recognition capabilities, enhancing user interaction. AR and VR are being integrated into live performances and gaming, offering unparalleled immersive experiences. This report highlights how these trends are transitioning entertainment robots from novelty items to integral components of comprehensive entertainment strategies, enhancing competitive advantages and identifying new growth opportunities. Regional Dynamics Shaping Entertainment Robot Adoption Worldwide Global adoption patterns vary, with North America leading due to its technological infrastructure and consumer readiness. Meanwhile, Latin America shows promise with its integration of robotics in public events. In Europe, advancements in theme park attractions and educational initiatives herald strong market receptivity, while Asia-Pacific emerges as a powerhouse of manufacturing and innovation, driven by countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. Such regional insights underscore the necessity for market participants to adopt localized strategies that accommodate specific consumer behaviors and cultural nuances, ultimately aiding in improving market penetration and identifying region-specific opportunities. Assessing the Implications of US Tariffs on the Entertainment Robots Market The 2025 introduction of US tariffs brought significant implications for the entertainment robotics sector. Key components like sensors and microprocessors faced escalated costs, prompting manufacturers to rethink their sourcing strategies. Some have redirected efforts towards domestic production or alternate regional suppliers to maintain competitive pricing. The analysis in the report equips decision-makers to mitigate risks and strategically leverage partnerships to enhance supply chain resilience. Competitive Landscape and Strategic Moves of Leading Players The competitive domain is characterized by established leaders and emerging entrants, driven by innovation and strategic partnerships. Leading firms are integrating AI and pursuing R&D for advanced robotics capabilities. Partnerships with educational bodies and entertainment companies are common, aiming to leverage shared technology and storytelling to enhance user engagement. Understanding these dynamics can guide strategic planning and competitive positioning amid a technologically disruptive environment. Strategic Imperatives for Industry Leaders to Capitalize on Growth Leaders in the entertainment robotics space are urged to invest in modular software platforms, enhanced AI abilities, and diverse supply chains. Forming partnerships with academia and entertainment producers can open new avenues for growth, while as-a-service models might sustain long-term revenue generation. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 196 Forecast Period 2025-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $3.67 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $5.42 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.1% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered1. Preface1.1. Objectives of the Study1.2. Market Segmentation & Coverage1.3. Years Considered for the Study1.4. Currency & Pricing1.5. Language1.6. Stakeholders2. Research Methodology2.1. Define: Research Objective2.2. Determine: Research Design2.3. Prepare: Research Instrument2.4. Collect: Data Source2.5. Analyze: Data Interpretation2.6. Formulate: Data Verification2.7. Publish: Research Report2.8. Repeat: Report Update3. Executive Summary4. Market Overview4.1. Introduction4.2. Market Sizing & Forecasting5. Market Dynamics6. Market Insights6.1. Porter's Five Forces Analysis6.2. PESTLE Analysis7. Cumulative Impact of United States Tariffs 20258. Entertainment Robots Market, by Product Type8.1. Introduction8.2. Companion Robots8.2.1. Humanoid8.2.2. Pet-Like8.3. Educational Robots8.3.1. Language Learning8.3.2. Stem Learning8.4. Gaming Robots8.4.1. Ar-Based8.4.2. Vr-Compatible8.5. Toy Robots8.5.1. Interactive8.5.2. Programmable8.5.3. Remote-Controlled9. Entertainment Robots Market, by Application9.1. Introduction9.2. Education and Learning Centers9.2.1. Curriculum-Based9.2.2. Workshops9.3. Events and Exhibitions9.3.1. Public Events9.3.2. Trade Shows9.4. Home Entertainment9.4.1. Interactive Experiences9.4.2. Live Performances9.5. Theme Parks and Amusement Parks9.5.1. Rides9.5.2. Robotic Attractions10. Entertainment Robots Market, by Distribution Channel10.1. Introduction10.2. Direct Sales10.2.1. B2b Contracts10.2.2. B2c Direct10.3. Online Retail10.3.1. E-Commerce Platforms10.3.2. Manufacturer Websites10.4. Specialty Stores10.4.1. Electronics Stores10.4.2. Toy Stores10.5. Third-Party Distributors10.5.1. Retailers10.5.2. Wholesalers11. Americas Entertainment Robots Market11.1. Introduction11.2. United States11.3. Canada11.4. Mexico11.5. Brazil11.6. Argentina12. Europe, Middle East & Africa Entertainment Robots Market12.1. Introduction12.2. United Kingdom12.3. Germany12.4. France12.5. Russia12.6. Italy12.7. Spain12.8. United Arab Emirates12.9. Saudi Arabia12.10. South Africa12.11. Denmark12.12. Netherlands12.13. Qatar12.14. Finland12.15. Sweden12.16. Nigeria12.17. Egypt12.18. Turkey12.19. Israel12.20. Norway12.21. Poland12.22. Switzerland13. Asia-Pacific Entertainment Robots Market13.1. Introduction13.2. China13.3. India13.4. Japan13.5. Australia13.6. South Korea13.7. Indonesia13.8. Thailand13.9. Philippines13.10. Malaysia13.11. Singapore13.12. Vietnam13.13. Taiwan14. Competitive Landscape14.1. Market Share Analysis, 202414.2. FPNV Positioning Matrix, 202414.3. Competitive Analysis For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Entertainment Robots Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
India Today
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Your next roommate might be a robot: How embodied AI is reimagining home life
From voice-enabled devices on wheels to emotionally intelligent companions, embodied AI is quietly moving in and changing the way we waking up to a robot gently nudging you awake, offering coffee, and prepping your to-do list. This isn't science fiction anymore. Welcome to the age of embodied AI robots designed to live with us, serve us, and even connect with us robotics are no longer gimmicks. Companies are developing mobile assistants that vacuum, fetch groceries, monitor pets, and offer companionship. With AI embedded in physical bodies, the domestic landscape is changing. WHAT TECH TITANS ARE BETTING ONElon Musk predicts 'tens of billions' of personal robots in the future, claiming his company's humanoid bot might one day out value the car business. The robot aims to handle mundane tasks like carrying bags or cleaning up a literal helping hand. He made this statement during Tesla's AI Day in Son, founder of a leading Japanese tech conglomerate, envisions robots that make people smile. His humanoid creation can chat, dance, and recognise emotions. It's not just a device it's a personality. 'We want robots to be affectionate,' Son said at a 2015 SoftBank Robotics event, framing robotics as emotional, not just CARE, AND COMPANIONSHIPThe first generation of home robots focuses on simplifying life. Robot vacuums are now common. Some bots mow lawns or deliver medicine. Others, like kitchen assistants, stir soups or cook simple meals. In hospitals, robotic aides have helped doctors connect with isolated patients during the Musk argues that such technologies free people from menial tasks. 'Physical work will be a choice,' he said during Tesla's 2021 AI Day entrepreneur Jack Ma added a similar vision at the 2019 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, suggesting that AI may eventually reduce the human work week to just 12 hours, freeing people for hobbies, rest, or Japan, AI pets resembling dogs are popular among the elderly. These robotic pets bark, wag their tails, and respond to touch without ever needing a walk. Similarly, humanoid assistants have been used in elderly homes to entertain and talk to TOUCH, ROBOTIC HEARTOne reason these robots are gaining traction is their 'personality.' Designers give them faces, eyes, and voices to feel relatable. Some blink, beep, and react like friendly cartoon characters. Others bow and use gestures. These aren't just aesthetics they're psychological matters too. Unlike static voice assistants, embodied AIs use movement and expression to communicate. Some robots nod, apologise, or mirror human emotion. This makes them feel more like a helper than a Pichai, CEO of Alphabet Inc., highlighted the importance of emotional sensitivity in AI during the 2021 Google I/O conference. He said AI must be inclusive and respectful, and that home robots should understand different accents, emotions, and family dynamics. It's not just about functionality it's about fitting into the human INTELLIGENCE BY DESIGNSome AI companions are now trained to detect feelings. A child-focused robot, for example, senses if a child is upset and adjusts its tone. Other robots can identify a frown and respond with a cheerful interactions aren't random. They're engineered to build trust and emotional rapport. Developers from Aldebaran Robotics, the original creators of one popular humanoid robot, have described their creations as 'kind and emotional companions,' a vision that underpins much of their product LEADS, THE WEST FOLLOWSJapan and South Korea are front-runners in adopting domestic robots. Their culture is more open to robotic companionship, and governments have supported initiatives like robot caregivers for contrast, Western consumers are cautiously optimistic. While smart speakers and appliances are widespread, humanoid robots are still niche. Yet the potential is huge. Smart home ecosystems could naturally evolve into mobile assistants that interact in deeper, more physical Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg explored a similar idea when he built his own AI home assistant, 'Jarvis,' which controlled lights, music, and doors in his house. He documented this project in a 2016 Facebook post, showcasing the future of personal AI INVISIBLE HELPERThe ultimate vision is a seamless integration of AI into our homes. A fridge that talks to your robot about low groceries. A bot that syncs with your fitness tracker to plan meals. A holographic video call projected by your is the AI ecosystem companies are racing toward. Not flashy tech, but invisible convenience. Like electricity, it just works in the background, improving life without drawing course, challenges remain. Privacy is a major concern robots with cameras and mics in our homes raise alarms. Then there's reliability. A buggy bot could be more frustrating than are investing in stronger safeguards and user-friendly settings. Feedback from early adopters is helping shape more intuitive, secure REVOLUTION IN MOTIONEmbodied AI is not just a trend it's a shift in how we live. From cleaning floors to comforting the elderly, robots are entering our personal spaces with purpose. Visionaries like Musk, Bezos, and Son aren't dreaming they're future home will likely include at least one robot, moving silently through your routine, helping, adapting, and even amusing. And one day, much like smartphones, you may wonder how you ever lived without by Kashmik Singh Chouhan
