FB Radar April Update
April Industry Highlights: Spotlight on Service Robotics & Industry Shifts
This month’s update rounds up the latest developments from the global robotics sector—from major funding rounds and the debut of humanoids to multifunctional cleaning bots and geopolitical headwinds affecting U.S. robotics firms.
Peppermint Robotics Secures $4M Series A Funding
India’s Smart Cleaning Startup Gains Momentum
Peppermint Robotics, a Pune-based robotics company focused on commercial floor cleaning, has raised $4 million in Series A funding. Saama Capital led the round with participation from strategic investors. The funds will be used to scale operations, boost research and development, and accelerate deployments in new geographic areas.
Link to Article:
https://www.entrepreneur.com/en-in/news-and-trends/peppermint-robotics-raises-usd-4-m-in-series-a-to-fuel/490122
Keenon Introduces Humanoid Robot XMAN-R1
Aiming to Bridge Functionality and Human Interaction
Keenon Robotics unveiled its first humanoid robot, the XMAN-R1, designed to assist in public environments such as hotels and airports. The robot integrates voice interaction, intelligent navigation, and expressive gestures, blurring the line between service robot and human-like assistant.
Pudu Robotics Launches FlashBot Arm
Modular Delivery Meets Manipulation
Pudu continues to evolve its delivery platform with the FlashBot Arm, a robot capable of opening doors, pressing elevator buttons, and handing over packages using a flexible robotic arm. This leap in functionality targets hospitals, hotels, and office buildings with complex navigation needs.
Link to Manufacturer:
https://www.pudurobotics.com/en/products/flashbot-arm?utm_source=news&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=FlashbotArm
SIMPPLE Goes Multi-Functional with Orion
New Addition Brings Versatility to Facility Management
Singapore-based SIMPPLE Ltd. unveiled the Orion, a multi-functional robot capable of performing a range of cleaning and inspection tasks. This launch broadens the company’s offering in smart facility management and signals a move toward integrated service robotics platforms.
U.S. Robotics Firms Hit by Tariff Uncertainty
Trump-Era Trade Tensions Resurface
U.S. robotics manufacturers are facing renewed challenges as uncertainty around tariffs resurfaces. The policy turbulence is reportedly impacting sourcing decisions, investor sentiment, and global expansion plans—especially among startups and mid-sized firms.
Link to Article:
https://www.techinasia.com/news/trumps-tariffs-uncertainty-hits-us-robotics-firms