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Boston Dynamics’s next-gen humanoid robot will have Google DeepMind DNA
Boston Dynamics has partnered with Google DeepMind to enhance the development of its humanoid robot Atlas, aiming to integrate advanced AI for more natural human interaction. This collaboration, revealed at CES 2026, seeks to leverage Google’s Gemini Robotics AI models for creating a versatile humanoid capable of fulfilling diverse human needs.
Key points
- Boston Dynamics announced a partnership with Google DeepMind focused on developing the humanoid robot Atlas.
- The partnership leverages Google's AI foundation models to improve human-robot interaction.
- Atlas is in production and will be tested as the first application of the new AI models.
- Google's Gemini Robotics AI is designed for robots to perceive and interact with humans effectively.
- Boston Dynamics has existing successful products like the Spot robot and Stretch warehouse robot, showing proven capabilities.
Why it matters
- The partnership marks a significant step in the ongoing evolution of AI and robotics technologies, aligning with 2025 trends focusing on increased automation and AI-human collaboration.
- Google's Gemini models represent a shift towards integrating generative AI in robotics, enhancing real-world utility.
- Boston Dynamics' advancements follow their previous successes in robotics, which reflects a trend towards practical applications of advanced robotic systems.
This collaboration sets the stage for a new era in humanoid robotics, potentially transforming how robots interact with people and fit into everyday life, showcasing a promising intersection of AI and robotics.