Here are five recent highlights on AI and robotics:
- Linkerbot’s $6 Billion Valuation Surge: Linkerbot doubled its valuation to $6 billion after a successful Series B+ round. It holds 80% of the global market share in high-dexterity robotic hands for humanoids and plans to scale production to 10,000 units monthly. Major investors include Ant Group and HongShan.
- AI Investments in Robotics: The robotics industry is witnessing a surge in AI-powered advancements, with billions expected in investments by 2025. Companies are racing to bridge the gap between hype and practical applications in “physical AI” for tasks like factory work. China is a major player, pledging $140 billion to dominate humanoid robotics, competing with the likes of Tesla.
- Global X AI & Robotics ETF Peaks: On May 4, 2026, the Global X AI & Robotics ETF (AIQ) hit a 52-week high, driven by Big Tech’s substantial capital expenditures and robust tech earnings. The demand for AI and big data technologies significantly boosted the ETF’s performance.
- Rise of AI-powered Robots: AI robots and virtual assistants are increasingly prevalent in both homes and industries. Machine learning enables these systems to adapt to user preferences, enhancing productivity. This trend was notable alongside innovations like self-driving taxis, exemplified by companies such as AutoWay.
- Humanoid Robots’ Evolution: Originally popular for their viral demo videos, humanoid robots are transitioning into more practical trials thanks to AI advances post-ChatGPT. Although challenges like data requirements and demonstrating value remain, 2025 saw significant growth in valuations and strategic focus, especially in China.
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