Boston Dynamics has partnered with Google DeepMind to speed up the development of its next-generation humanoid robot, Atlas. The collaboration was announced onstage at Hyundai’s CES 2026 press conference and marks a major step toward bringing advanced artificial intelligence into real-world humanoid robots that can work safely and naturally alongside people.
Carolina Parada, senior director of robotics at Google DeepMind, said Atlas will serve as the first test platform for the partnership. The two companies plan to integrate advanced AI systems into humanoid machines designed for real-world use and human interaction.
“We’re looking to integrate our cutting-edge AI foundation models with Boston Dynamics’ new Atlas robots, and we’ll aim to develop the world’s most advanced robot foundation model to fulfill the promise of true general-purpose human needs,” Parada said onstage. She highlighted the role of DeepMind’s Gemini Robotics models in enabling robots to perceive their surroundings, reason through tasks, use tools and interact with humans in complex environments.
As Atlas transitions from a prototype to a production-ready system for Hyundai’s factory in Savannah, Georgia, Boston Dynamics is placing strong emphasis on intelligence, not just physical ability. The company believes that smart behaviour is as important as advanced movement for humanoid robots to succeed in real-world settings.
Alberto Rodriguez, director of Atlas behavior at Boston Dynamics, said that turning Atlas into a commercial product requires more than strong athletic performance. He noted that making “Atlas into a product requires more than athletic performance for humanoids to really deliver on their promise. They have to be able to interact with people naturally.”
Hyundai plans to support this goal through its new Robot Metaplant Application Center. The facility will use real-world factory data to continuously train, test and improve Atlas robots, helping them become more capable over time.
The partnership signals a growing focus on combining advanced AI with robotics to build humanoid machines that can operate effectively in industrial and human-focused environments.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
