When mobile robots call elevators

How M2X aims to standardize communication between mobile robots and infrastructure

Oct 06, 2026 — Opening doors, calling elevators, navigating to charging stations: mobile robots must do more than simply find their way whilst in operation. They must also communicate with their surroundings.

Form Follows Function

The Pragmatism of Physical AI

Oct 06, 2026 — We are living in one of the most fascinating eras in industrial history. The convergence of highly advanced mechatronics, rapid computing power and machine learning has ushered us into the age of ‘Physical AI’.

Portrait of Mikell Taylor

One of 11 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics in 2026

Sep 29, 2026 — When I was 16 years old, my physics teacher called me over in the hall between classes. “You’ve got a free period after lunch, right?” he asked. “Come meet some people from Ohio State who want to start a robotics team here.”

Exciting Times for Robot Suppliers!

New record level reached

Sep 28, 2026 — It is my privilege to introduce the 39th annual World Robotics report for Industrial Robots, which is a leading source of information benchmarking the worldwide industrial robotics production and usage, providing global and country-by-country statistical data, enriched by classifications on robot types, applications and market segments.

Do Robots Bring Production Back Home?

New firm-level evidence on automation and offshoring

Sep 17, 2026 — In recent years, researchers and the general public have debated whether industrial robots can bring production back home. The argument is the following: If robots can automate tasks previously offshored to low-wage countries, firms in advanced economies may have less reason to produce abroad.

Portrait of Younseal Eum

One of 11 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics in 2026

Jun 30, 2026 — My journey began not in a lab, but in an art studio.

Portrait of Christina Jorgensen Hinze

One of 11 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics in 2026

Jun 25, 2026 — I believe robotics should not be an exclusive domain reserved for specialists.

Portrait of Professor Rong Xiong

One of 11 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics in 2026

Jun 15, 2026 — My curiosity about new technologies is the biggest driving force for me to enter the robotics industry.

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The IFR Newsletter - published quarterly - informs about sector relevant news - press releases, in-depth blogs, positioning papers and case studies on robot use. In addition, we inform about upcoming events, and new IFR members. Each newsletter highlights a report by the current IFR president. Please register for an automatic supply.

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