Google DeepMind has recruited Aaron Saunders, the former CTO of Boston Dynamics, to enhance its robotics efforts. DeepMind aims to develop Gemini as a versatile robot operating system, leveraging AI to control various robotic forms. The move reflects growing competition in the robotics field, particularly from startups and companies in China.

Boston Dynamics announced the production-ready version of its Atlas robot at CES 2026. The first units will go to Hyundai and Google DeepMind, with Atlas designed for industrial tasks like parts sequencing and assembly. The robot is capable of lifting 110 pounds and operating in extreme temperatures.