AI in robotics: At a glance

Robotics is one of the industries at the forefront of AI innovation. And it’s no understatement: AI-powered robots are transforming how we live and work. 

According to estimates, the AI robotics market is already hovering around the $20 billion mark in 2024, with around $6.2 billion being in the US market alone. 

The same research claims that we’ll be passing the $35 billion mark by 2030. Staggering. 

AI allows robots to learn from data, adapt to new situations, and work more autonomously. AI powers robotics in manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and more. Self-driving cars, automated factories, surgical robots, and autonomous drones all rely on AI.

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What are AI robots exactly?

AI gives robots the ability to learn from experience, adapt to new situations, and make complex decisions on their own. This is transforming many industries by automating tasks and improving all-around efficiency.

Here are some industries where artificial intelligence robots are already in full swing: 

• In manufacturing, AI-enabled robots can detect defects, customize products, and optimize assembly lines. Companies like Standard Bots and ABB are leaders in industrial robotics and integrating AI for increased productivity and quality.
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• In healthcare, AI robots can help out with surgeries, deliver supplies, disinfect rooms, and help patients with mobility. Companies such as Anthropic and Diligent Robotics are developing AI robots for hospitals and nursing homes.
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• For transportation, AI powers self-driving vehicles and drone delivery systems. Alphabet's Waymo and Amazon are testing fully autonomous taxis and delivery drones, while companies like Aurora Innovation and Argo AI provide the AI technology behind them. And we’ve all heard about Tesla. 

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The top 10 AI robotics companies in 2024

Here are the AI robotics companies making waves right now: 

Standard Bots (USA)

Standard Bots stands as the premier AI robotics company. They’re on a mission to bring accessible, powerful automation solutions to businesses of all sizes. Based in the United States, they’re all about user-friendly, affordable, and capable robotic solutions.

Standard Bots combines accessibility with advanced GPT-4-level AI capabilities and robust hardware, making automation within reach for smaller manufacturers. 

Top model:

• RO1, a 6-axis collaborative robot (can work safely with humans) with an impressive payload capacity, precision, and plug-and-play design, making it perfect for tasks like machine tending, assembly, packaging, welding, palletizing, and more, including quality control. 

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ABB (Switzerland)

A true pioneer in artificial intelligence robots, ABB is a global leader with a vast array of industrial robots and automation solutions. With headquarters in Switzerland, they're known for their extensive experience, reliability, and advanced technology.

ABB delivers high-performance robots for demanding applications, backed by their very deep industry expertise. 

Top models:

• IRB series: Compact, versatile robots ideal for small parts handling and assembly.
• YuMi: Collaborative robots designed to work safely alongside humans.

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FANUC (Japan)

FANUC is a major player in industrial automation, particularly renowned for their high-speed, precision robots. Based in Japan, they offer a comprehensive range of robotic solutions for several industries. 

Their bots put a premium on speed and accuracy, making them ideal for applications where maximum throughput is crucial. Their robots are also known for being easy to maintain. 

Top models:

• R-series: High-speed robots for a wide range of tasks, including material handling and welding.
• M-series: Collaborative robots for safe, flexible operation in close proximity to workers.

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KUKA (Germany)

Specializing in heavy-duty industrial robots, KUKA is a German company known for its powerful and robust machines. They cater to industries requiring high-payload robots for large-scale manufacturing operations.

KUKA robots can handle heavy workloads and extremely demanding conditions. They offer solutions for sectors like automotive manufacturing and aerospace.

Top models:

• KR AGILUS: Compact, high-speed robots for precision tasks in small workspaces.
• KR QUANTEC: Powerful robots with a range of payload capacities.
• KR TITAN: Ultra-heavy payload robots built for extreme strength and durability.

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Yaskawa Motoman (Japan)

One of the most well-known autonomous robot companies Yaskawa Motoman provides a diverse selection of robotic solutions. They stay true to their Japanese roots, emphasizing quality and innovation. 

They offer a broad range of robots that can handle various tasks across industries, with a big focus on flexibility and ease of integration, making them adaptable to many applications.

Top models:

• MH-series: High-speed robots designed for material handling and packaging.
• HC-series: Collaborative robots for safe and flexible human-robot interaction.

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Epson Robots (Japan)

Epson Robots brings its expertise in precision technology to the industrial robotics space. A Japanese company known for printers and electronics, they apply their focus on precision to their robots.

They’re known for their exceptional accuracy and repeatability, ideal for tasks requiring extreme precision in electronics assembly and other delicate applications.

Top models:

• SCARA robots: High-speed, precision robots for assembly and pick-and-place operations.
• 6-axis robots: Versatile robots offering flexibility for a wide range of tasks.

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Kinova Robotics (Canada)

Kinova Robotics specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative robotic solutions for a range of industries, including healthcare, research, and manufacturing. Based in Canada, they focus on human-robot collaboration and assistive technologies.

They prioritize safety, ease of use, and adaptability, making them ideal for applications where humans and robots work nearby, with a focus on assistive tech.

Top models:

• Jaco: Modular robotic arm designed for assistive purposes, helping individuals with disabilities complete everyday tasks.
• Gen3: Versatile collaborative robot with various configurations for research and industrial settings.

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Doosan Robotics (South Korea)

Doosan Robotics brings a collaborative approach to industrial robots, offering solutions for easy integration and safe operation. Based in South Korea, their focus is on user-friendliness and accessibility.

Their main draw is easy-to-use interfaces and quick setups, making them ideal for manufacturers looking to streamline their automation setup.

Top models:

• M-series: Collaborative robots offering flexibility and a range of payload capacities.
• H-series: High-power robots for demanding tasks requiring heavier lift capacity.

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Kawasaki Robotics (Japan)

A major industrial player, Kawasaki Robotics offers robust and reliable robotic solutions for various industries. Based in Japan, they draw from the extensive engineering expertise of their parent company, Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

Their bots are all about high performance and versatility for demanding manufacturing environments. They excel in applications such as welding, painting, and heavy material handling.

Top models:

• RS series: High-speed, precision robots for assembly and pick-and-place tasks.
• BX series: Powerful robots with a range of payload capacities and reach for diverse applications.
• duAro: Dual-arm collaborative robots for complex tasks requiring two-handed dexterity.

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Comau (Italy)

With a strong focus on the automotive industry, Comau brings expertise in streamlined manufacturing solutions. Headquartered in Italy, they provide a range of robots and automation systems.

Their bots are designed with efficient integration within complex manufacturing lines in mind.  Their deep understanding of the automotive sector translates into specialized solutions.

Top models:

• Racer series: High-speed robots optimized for precision and agility in demanding applications.
• Rebel-S SCARA: Fast and accurate robots ideal for assembly and packaging tasks.
• NJ series: Articulated robots offering flexibility and a range of payload capacities.

Frequently asked questions

What company is making AI robots?

Many innovative companies are leading the charge in AI robotics. Here are a few standouts: Standard Bots (USA), ABB (Switzerland), FANUC (Japan), and KUKA (Germany).

What is the most successful AI robot?

Defining "success" for AI robots depends on your criteria. Here are some contenders based on different strengths:

• Commercially successful: Standard Bots' RO1 is a remarkably successful AI robot due to its affordability, ease of use, and versatility, opening up automation to a wider market.
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• Research breakthroughs: Robots from companies like Boston Dynamics (now part of Hyundai) push the boundaries of AI and robotic capabilities, even if not yet widely commercially deployed.
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• Specialized success: Robots from ABB, FANUC, and KUKA are successful in specific industries, known for their reliability, speed, and precision in demanding applications.

What are the top robotics companies?

The top robotics companies are constantly innovating. Here's our list, but keep in mind this field is rapidly evolving: Standard Bots (USA), Yaskawa Motoman (Japan), Kuka (Germany), and Kawasaki Robotics (Japan). 

What is the most advanced AI robot today?

The "most advanced" title is constantly shifting. Here's why it's tricky to answer definitively:

• AI specialization: Different robots excel in different areas. A robot with cutting-edge vision AI might not have sophisticated natural language understanding like GPT-4.
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• Research vs. commercial: Lab prototypes might be incredibly advanced, but not yet commercially available. Standard Bots RO1 brings advanced AI to the market at an accessible price point.
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• Defining "advanced": Is it raw processing power, adaptability, or ability to perform complex tasks? This changes how we judge what's "most advanced."

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Summing up

Those are the top 10 AI robotics companies leading the charge in 2024. 

The industry is booming, expected to be worth over $35 billion globally by the end of the decade with a CAGR of 11.63%.

Crazy, right? From manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and personal assistants, these forward-thinking AI robot companies are developing cutting-edge AI robots that are already changing the face of the world as we know it.

And if you’re wondering whether it’s time to join the fray, the answer is yes!

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Next steps

Explore automation made easy with RO1 by Standard Bots, an adaptable 6-axis robotic arm designed for businesses large and small.

• Affordable automation solutions: RO1 brings crucial automation capabilities that enhance efficiency at half the price of the competition.

• Peak performance with minimal fuss: RO1's 6-axis flexibility and impressive 18 kg payload offer the speed and precision necessary for your operations.

• Enhanced cooperation with safety in mind: RO1 is equipped with cutting-edge safety features for flawless integration of human and robot collaboration.

• Intelligent, evolving technology: Equipped with AI as advanced as GPT-4, RO1 continually improves and adapts with you. 

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Our dedicated team is here to make sure RO1 perfectly integrates into your workflow. Discover the benefits firsthand with a 30-day free trial!