The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) showcased a brand new robot training model this week that abandons the previous focus on training methods centered around specific datasets, opting instead for an approach that utilizes vast amounts of information similar to that used in training large language models (LLMs). Researchers noted that imitation learning—where agents learn by mimicking individuals performing tasks—can fail when facing minor challenges. These challenges may include varying lighting conditions, different environmental setups, or new obstacles. In such cases, the robots lack sufficient data to adapt to these changes.

This week, MIT showcased a new model for training robots, aimed at addressing the challenges faced by imitation learning when introduced to small obstacles. Researchers pointed out that imitation learning can fail in conditions such as varying lighting, different environments, or new obstacles because robots simply do not have enough data to adapt. The team sought powerful data methods, like those used in models such as GPT-4, to tackle the problem. They introduced a new architecture called the Heterogeneous Pretrained Transformer (HPT), which aggregates information from different sensors and environments.

The world's largest technical professional organization, IEEE, recently released a research report titled 'Technology Impact Beyond 2025'. This report surveyed 355 technology leaders from Brazil, China, India, the UK, and the US to explore future technology development trends. The survey revealed that 58% of respondents believe that smart technologies will be the most influential technology area in 2025, marking its second consecutive year at the top. Following closely are cloud computing (26%) and robotics (24%). Other noteworthy fields include extended reality.

Today in Chengdu, a significant breakthrough in technological innovation has been achieved! According to the official Chengdu WeChat account, the Chengdu Humanoid Robot Innovation Center has unveiled the country's first ultra-lightweight humanoid robot - 'Gongga No. 1'. This robot is not only lightweight and agile but also equipped with powerful intelligence, making it a proud 'Chengdu creation'. 'Gongga No. 1' is one of only three humanoid robots globally to possess the 'strongest brain', with a total weight of just 25 kilograms, well below the industry standard of 60 to 250 kilograms.

Recently, exciting news has emerged from the art world: the renowned auction house Sotheby's will hold a unique auction at the end of this month, featuring a humanoid robot artist! This robot artist, named Ai-Da, will present her latest work titled 'AI God: Portrait of Alan Turing.' The artwork is inspired by Alan Turing, the father of modern computer science, and measures 64x90.5 inches, created using various media.

Wenyuan Zhixing officially launched its new generation mass-produced Robotaxi — GXR on October 15. GXR draws on more than 1,800 days of public operation experience in the Robotaxi field, featuring L4 level public road driving capability, and can handle complex scenarios such as morning and evening rush hours, mixed traffic, and high-speed driving at night. The Wenyuan Zhixing GXR is equipped with comprehensive redundancy systems for architecture, F-O line control chassis, computing units, and braking, effectively avoiding single point failures. It also features the new HPC 2.0 high-performance computing platform.

In Silicon Valley, the garage culture has birthed many tech legends, and Christoph Kohstall's garage may be the next. Inside his workspace, electrical components, workbenches, and mechanical tools are scattered everywhere, but the most striking feature is the red industrial beams on the ceiling—a gantry system used to stabilize robots during testing. Kohstall is the founder of Kind Humanoid, a startup developing a bipedal robot called Mona. Though their work environment appears chaotic, it is filled with innovation.

Recently, at the Cybercab luxury showcase, Tesla featured the Optimus robot as a highlight. These robots interacted with the audience, served drinks, played games, and even danced and conversed in a gazebo, leaving a lasting impression. However, as more details emerge, the authenticity of this showcase has come under scrutiny. Various reports suggest that the performance of the Optimus robots may not be fully autonomous. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas pointed out that these robots 'rely on remote operation (human intervention).'

Kind Humanoid is a robotics startup based in Palo Alto, founded by Christoph Kostol, who has a background in Silicon Valley. The company's workspace is filled with various electronic components and fabrication tools, reflecting the spirit of DIY computing that has characterized Silicon Valley. The design of Kind Humanoid's robots is inspired by the surrealistic art style of Belgian painter René Magritte. The company's designer, Yves Béhar, stated that he hopes to convey a message through the design of the robots.

At the recent 'Cybercab' event, Tesla showcased a series of impressive humanoid robots, Optimus, while also revealing the new Robovan. These Optimus robots stepped off the stage, demonstrating various tasks they can perform in daily life, such as retrieving packages from the porch and watering plants. Tesla CEO Elon Musk humorously stated during the event: 'Optimus will walk alongside you.' He even mentioned that you can...