In a candid interview, Jeff Cardenas outlines the "mainframe to PC" shift in robotics, the geopolitical stakes between the U.S. and China, and why Apptronik’s nearly decade-long head start makes it hard for new entrants to catch up.
Apptronik has been named to CNBC's 2025 Disruptor 50 list at #33, becoming the first humanoid robotics company to achieve this recognition. The selection highlights Apptronik's scalability, AI integration through its Apollo robot, a recent $350M Series A funding, and key partnerships, signaling the growing prominence of humanoid robots.
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.