Apptronik

A PatentVest analysis reveals a significant disconnect between venture capital funding and intellectual property defensibility among humanoid robotics startups, raising questions about long-term viability in a rapidly evolving market.

Soft Robotics Podcast host Marwa ElDiwiny and engineer Scott Walter dissect the rotary-vs-linear actuator debate shaping today’s humanoid robots—explaining why most builders favor compact rotary joints while others bet on planetary-roller-screw cylinders.

Apptronik CEO Jeff Cardenas discusses plans for new Apollo humanoid versions focusing on robustness and dexterity, leveraging strategic partnerships like a manufacturing deal with Jabil, and significant investor backing. The company emphasizes a 'Robots for Humans' approach, aiming for commercial viability by 2025 and meaningful industrial deployment from late 2026.

Investor Chris Camillo shares his conversion from humanoid robot skeptic to major believer, outlining his thesis that 'embodied AI' represents an 'infinite labor machine' set to transform industries like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. He discusses key players (Tesla, Figure, Apptronik), timelines (pilots now, scaling in 3-5 years, ubiquitous in 10-30), the RaaS business model, and potential economic impact, while cautioning against near-term hype.

Corporate venture capital investment in robotics startups surged 183% YoY in Q1 2024, reaching $1.3 billion across 34 deals. Driven by AI advancements and manufacturing needs like onshoring, corporations are investing both to supply components for and deploy next‑generation robots, most notably humanoids.