The hottest Robotics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Import AI 348: DeepMind defines AGI; the best free LLM is made in China; mind controlling robots

Import AI • 339 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Models Investment Internet
  1. DeepMind defines AGI levels and the risks they pose, highlighting the potential societal impacts of increasingly autonomous AI systems.
  2. Researchers have created smart glasses with object detection capabilities powered by a miniaturized YOLO model, showcasing the possibilities of on-device AI processing.
  3. Stanford's NOIR project demonstrates how brain-scanning signals can be used to control robots for a variety of tasks, paving the way for a future where humans interact with robotic systems through brain commands.

What to Watch in Robotics

Startup Pirate by Alex Alexakis • 176 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Robotics AI Agriculture Small business Innovation
  1. Robotics is advancing rapidly, from cooking shrimp to automating tasks like folding laundry and making coffee.
  2. General Robotic Intelligence (GRI) is still missing, but platforms are being developed to enable robots to perform complex tasks in dynamic environments.
  3. Companies are working to make robotics accessible to small and medium-sized businesses, enabling them to automate tasks and stay competitive.

The Transformer Robots are Here, Just a Different Kind

TheSequence • 693 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Robotics AI ML Research AI Radar
  1. Advancements in foundation models like language and computer vision are shaping a new era of robotic applications.
  2. Google DeepMind introduced innovative methods like AutoRT and SARA-RT to enhance robotic actions using vision-language models.
  3. The integration of foundation models in image, language, and video is accelerating robotics to new levels of efficiency.

Import AI 345: Facebook uses AI to mindread; MuJoCo v3; Amazon adds bipedal robots to its warehouses

Import AI • 339 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Simulation Models
  1. Facebook has developed an AI system that uses brain scan data to roughly predict visual representations, demonstrating convergence between AI and human behavior.
  2. Amazon is testing bipedal robots in its warehouses, potentially streamlining the integration of robots into human-centric environments.
  3. Adept released Fuyu-8B, a multimodal model to help AI systems understand and interact with visual elements, expanding the range of tasks AI systems can perform beyond text.

What the F*AI*K is happening?

Robots & Startups • 99 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Deepfakes Autonomous Vehicles Artificial Intelligence
  1. Robots utilizing AI can make a positive impact in the physical world by addressing real-world problems and global challenges.
  2. Unleashed AI can lead to misinformation and unreliable data, which poses a significant threat if not controlled.
  3. The proliferation of fake robot videos can create skepticism and hinder the credibility of real robotic advancements.
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Import AI 325: Automated mad science; AI vs democracy; and a 12B parameter language model

Import AI • 419 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🕹 Technology AI Democracy Language Models Robotics Legal analysis
  1. Prompt injection could be a major security risk in AI systems, making them vulnerable to unintended actions and compromising user privacy.
  2. The concentration of AI development in private companies poses a threat to democracy, as these language models encode the normative intentions of their creators without democratic oversight.
  3. The rapid race to build 'god-like AI' in the private sector is raising concerns about the lack of understanding and oversight, with experts warning about potential dangers to humanity.

Amadee-24 Chronicles: Mars on Earth - How Do We Prepare for a Mars Mission?

Space Ambition • 79 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astrobiology Robotics Artificial Intelligence Human factors
  1. Analog missions help us practice for going to Mars by simulating life on other planets. These missions are done on Earth to learn about the challenges astronauts might face.
  2. Communication on missions to Mars is tricky because it takes about 10 minutes for messages to travel. This makes astronauts more independent and affects their mental state during the journey.
  3. People can join analog missions to gain experience and be part of the preparation for Mars. These missions are exciting and beneficial for anyone interested in space exploration.

Data Science Weekly - Issue 506

Data Science Weekly Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Data science Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence Robotics Data Engineering
  1. Integrating large language models into systems can be done using seven key patterns that balance performance and cost.
  2. Ethics in AI isn't just about explainability and fairness; we need a deeper understanding to prevent overall harm from AI systems.
  3. New approaches in robotics focus on current challenges and opportunities while advancing understanding of AI's role in planning tasks.

Import AI 328: Cheaper StableDiffusion; sim2soccer; AI refinement

Import AI • 339 implied HN points • 08 May 23
🕹 Technology AI Research Simulation Data Robotics
  1. Training image models can be cheaper with smart tweaks like Low Precision GroupNorm and Low Precision LayerNorm. Companies like Mosaic are leading the way in AI industrialization.
  2. Prominent AI researcher Geoff Hinton has expressed concerns about the rapid progress and control of advanced AI models. His departure from Google highlights the growing worries in the field.
  3. New companies like Lamini are offering services to fine-tune existing AI models, indicating further industrialization of AI. Startups like these are bridging the gap between AI products and consumers.

Welcome to Yokohama and ICRA 2024!

Robots & Startups • 59 implied HN points • 12 May 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Conferences Innovation AI Research
  1. The average technical recruiter is young, and studies suggest they may favor younger job candidates over older ones.
  2. ICRA 2024 in Yokohama is a large event with over 5000 roboticists and 120+ robotics companies showcasing quadruped and humanoid robots.
  3. Academic robotics conferences like ICRA feature a variety of activities beyond paper presentations, including robotics competitions, industry exhibitions, career fairs, debates, and more.

Startup deadlines, RoboGames and ride-on robots!

Robots & Startups • 79 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Robotics AI Startups Events
  1. Robotic standards are crucial for ensuring safety, with variations based on industrial and non-industrial settings.
  2. Exciting advancements in robotics technology are driving funding growth and opportunities for startups in the industry.
  3. Upcoming robotics events offer a diverse range of opportunities to witness cutting-edge technologies and engage with the robotics community.

For Pete's sake, learn what a machine is.

Top Carbon Chauvinist • 19 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence Robotics Programming Computer Science
  1. A machine is made up of parts that do work by handling loads, like electricity or mechanics. It does not actually understand or think about what it does.
  2. When programming a machine, like a catapult, you're just adjusting physical elements, not teaching it to know or understand concepts like 'rock' or 'lever'.
  3. Living things are not machines because they aren't made of manufactured parts. They grow and evolve in ways that machines cannot.

Robotics Invest, SVR Leadership, IMTS Innovation Pavilion and more

Robots & Startups • 39 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Innovation Investment Leadership
  1. Silicon Valley Robotics Leadership Forum discussed important topics like robotics investment and infrastructure in an AI age.
  2. The forum had 75 robotics CEOs and leaders attending and covered a wide range of topics.
  3. Key areas highlighted at the event were supporting robotics developers and sharing resources for local manufacturing.

Robotics startups vs other startups

Robots & Startups • 119 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Startups Artificial Intelligence Events Innovation
  1. The number of venture-backed U.S. startups has significantly increased over the years, with a particularly notable growth in robotics startups.
  2. Compared to all startups, robotics startups have seen a much larger growth percentage, showcasing the significant expansion of the robotics industry.
  3. OpenAI's achievement of reaching $2B in revenue marks it as the fastest growing startup ever, demonstrating the potential for success in the robotics field.

Xenobots: Self-Replicating Biobots

Solve Cancer in 365 days • 2 HN points • 14 Sep 24
🔬 Science Biology Technology Engineering Health Robotics
  1. Xenobots are made from frog cells and can swim, heal, and move in groups. They are different from regular robots because they are living organisms created by scientists.
  2. Researchers design Xenobots by separating skin and heart cells and using computer algorithms to find the best ways to make them move. This combines biology with engineering.
  3. Xenobots can self-replicate by using loose stem cells to create new Xenobots. They could help with pollution cleanup and even serve purposes in medicine, like repairing organs.

The Red Frontier: Mars Rovers' Legacy, Opportunities, and Expert Predictions from the Pioneers of Martian Ventures

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Robotics Astrobiology Planetary Science Technology development
  1. Mars rovers are our main way to explore the planet since humans can't go there yet. These robots gather important information that helps us understand Mars better.
  2. There have been several successful Mars missions, but only a few rovers are still active today. Each rover has contributed to discovering water signs and preparing for future human visits.
  3. The future of Mars exploration involves collaboration between robots and humans. Robots will help pave the way for future missions, while humans will bring creativity and problem-solving skills to the table.

Some interesting new robots just announced!

Robots & Startups • 79 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Robotics AI Events Ethics
  1. AI learning starting with text may be going backwards for language development, particularly for speech and social interaction.
  2. Human-robot interactions often differ from our collective fantasies, with instances of people mistreating robots in public like playing 'kick the robot dog' or interfering with autonomous cars.
  3. Robots posing as scooters in public encounters negative behaviors due to lack of proper treatment and consideration towards the technology.

Robotics is Inching Towards it ChatGPT Moment

TheSequence • 84 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Innovation Data science Machine Learning
  1. Robots are getting smarter with new tech, especially using large language models, which help them learn and do tasks better.
  2. MIT's new technique helps robots understand different types of data, making them more capable and efficient in their work.
  3. There’s a big push for robots to interact more naturally with humans, like being able to feel and handle objects carefully, which can improve everyday tasks.

YC, Alchemist, Gitex want robot startups!

Robots & Startups • 59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
💼 Business Startups Accelerators Venture Capital Robotics Events
  1. Y Combinator, Alchemist, and Gitex are seeking robot startups for various programs and events.
  2. Startup accelerator programs like Alchemist Accelerator have specific criteria for founders and offer opportunities for nominations and fast-tracked interviews.
  3. There are numerous deadlines for startup calls in diverse fields like mobility, med devices, and deep tech, along with events like the Gitex Global in Dubai.

Model merging lessons in The Waifu Research Department

Democratizing Automation • 209 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🕹 Technology AI Deep Learning Machine Learning Robotics
  1. Model merging is a way to blend two model weights to create a new model, useful for experimenting with large language models.
  2. Model merging is popular in creating anime models by merging Stable Diffusion variants, allowing for unique artistic results.
  3. Weight averaging techniques in model merging aim to find more robust solutions by creating models centered in flat regions of the loss landscape.

Blink and you'll miss it... The Climate Robotics Summit was on last week

Robots & Startups • 39 implied HN points • 06 May 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Artificial Intelligence Events Startups Mentorship
  1. The Climate Robotics Summit focused on building a community for sustainable applications of Climate Robotics.
  2. Robotic mentor programs are seeking experienced individuals to support startups and share knowledge.
  3. The Women in Robotics Scholarship, in memory of Joanne Pransky, is accepting applications for its second round of awards.

Space Robotics: The Pivotal Role in Lunar and Martian Colonization, Current Innovations, and Future Trends

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Robotics Space Exploration Artificial Intelligence Research & Development Commercialization
  1. Robots are super important for exploring and building on the Moon and Mars. They can do tough jobs in space where humans can't easily go.
  2. Using robots in space is way cheaper than sending people. Robots can do tasks like repairing satellites and cleaning up space junk, making them great helpers for astronauts.
  3. The private space industry is growing and creating new robots for space. This can lead to cheaper and easier ways to send things to the Moon and beyond.

The Sequence Radar #467: NVIDIA AI Software Party at a Hardware Show

TheSequence • 35 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Computing Software Hardware Robotics
  1. NVIDIA is focusing more on AI software, not just hardware, which was clear at CES. They launched several new AI software products that make it easier for developers to integrate AI into their apps.
  2. The new NVIDIA NIM microservices allow developers to deploy AI capabilities quickly, cutting down deployment times significantly. This is a game changer for companies looking to adopt AI technologies fast.
  3. NVIDIA's new AI Blueprints are templates that help developers create AI solutions efficiently. This means developers can spend more time innovating instead of starting from scratch.

The Sequence Chat: The One Area in Which China can Dominate the US in the AI Race

TheSequence • 49 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Manufacturing Supply Chain International relations
  1. China has a unique advantage in robotics due to its strong supply chain and manufacturing capabilities. This gives them an edge over the US in producing and developing robots.
  2. The US and China are in a competitive race in the field of robotics and AI technology. It's important to understand both countries' strengths and weaknesses.
  3. Robots will become a bigger part of daily life for future generations. This makes the race in robotics crucial for both countries.

Charts on Venture Capital, some VC robotics articles, and startup failure advice

Robots & Startups • 39 implied HN points • 29 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Venture Capital Robotics Startups Autonomous Vehicles AI
  1. There are more startups in the US than VCs can support, leading to increased competition for funding and a rise in startup failures.
  2. Investors are showing increased interest and making significant investments in robotics startups, especially those focused on AI and autonomy.
  3. Success rates for founders improve with past experience, highlighting the importance of learning from failure in the startup world.

It's a tale of two startups... humanoid of course

Robots & Startups • 19 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Startups
  1. There are significant differences between two startups in the humanoid robotics industry, especially in terms of founders' backgrounds and experiences.
  2. One startup is founded by someone deeply experienced in serious robotics and commercialization, potentially making them a strong contender in the humanoid robotics market.
  3. The other startup's founder lacks a robotics background but has experience in raising large funding rounds, and this startup has attracted some controversy.

Buyer's remorse is a big problem for robotics

Robots & Startups • 79 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Robotics AI Startups Events
  1. Buyer's remorse is a significant issue in the robotics industry, causing regret among manufacturers for recent technology purchases.
  2. Numerous robotics companies are facing downsizing and financial challenges, indicating the industry's complexity and difficulty in achieving success.
  3. There are various advancements and developments in the robotics field, from autonomous boat technology to robots reaching the ISS, showcasing the diversity and innovation in the industry.

More and more humanoids, IPOs and the State of AI ...

Robots & Startups • 39 implied HN points • 21 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Robotics Artificial Intelligence Startups Events Innovation
  1. Boston Dynamics introduced a new electric Atlas, showing advancements in humanoid robotics.
  2. The AI Index from the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence reveals key trends in AI development, funding, and regulations.
  3. Putting fur on robots, as Sega Toys learned, can lead to issues like burning smells and recalls.

Tech is Going to Get Much Bigger

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 232 implied HN points • 08 Nov 23
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Startups Automation Innovation
  1. Tech is going to expand significantly as energy, intelligence, and labor become cheaper and more abundant.
  2. Tech companies will grow larger due to their ability to provide scalable intelligence and dexterity services to various industries.
  3. Every market will start to resemble a software market with lower costs, higher margins, and increased R&D investments.

Spotlight: Alon Tenzer – An Analog Astronaut on a Simulated Mars Mission

Space Ambition • 199 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Robotics Human factors
  1. Analog astronauts participate in simulated Mars missions to test technologies and procedures that will be used in real space missions. These missions help prepare for future human exploration of Mars.
  2. The Aouda Spacesuit Simulator is crucial for testing how astronauts will operate on Mars. It mimics real spacesuits and checks if new technologies can be used effectively in harsh conditions.
  3. Training to become an analog astronaut requires a strong background in science and engineering. Participants undergo rigorous training to handle technical challenges and the psychological stress of being isolated from Earth.

The 5 Laws of Robotics

Robots & Startups • 179 implied HN points • 09 May 23
🕹 Technology Robotics Ethics Panel Discussion
  1. The post discusses the 5 Laws of Robotics and suggests 5 achievable actions before a panel on community acceptance.
  2. The author, Andra Keay, is sharing insights on robotics and technology, highlighting industry leaders and discussions.
  3. Readers can access the full post and archives with a 7-day free trial subscription to Robots & Startups.

Celebrating International Women in Robotics Day on October 4th (and all October really!)

Robots & Startups • 139 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Robotics Sustainability
  1. International Women in Robotics Day is celebrated on October 4th and the entire month of October.
  2. The Women in Robotics organization publishes an annual collection of '50 women in robotics you need to know about.'
  3. Celebration events for International Women in Robotics Day are happening across the USA and the launch of new Women in Robotics chapters is taking place.