The Israeli start-up Mentee Robotics introduced the humanoid robot MenteeBot to the public this spring. The robot is the result of two years of secret development, according to a statement from the company. MenteeBot is 1.75 meters tall and weighs 70 kilograms. It can carry a total load of around 25 kilograms as well as respond to speech. It is set to launch on the market in the first quarter of 2025 and can be used for activities in both private households and warehouses.

Among its capabilities, the robot can receive a verbal command and then carry out a complex task, writes the statement. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) at all functional levels is described as exceptional. One focus is on locomotion and dexterity, with a novel approach to machine learning used for the former, writes the company. MenteeBot can also localise itself on 3D maps, avoid obstacles and balance itself dynamically when carrying or reaching, says Mentee Robotics.

Mentee Robotics was founded in 2022 by Lior Wolf and two partners. Wolf’s experience includes working for several years as Director of Facebook AI Research. He currently also teaches computer vision and deep learning at the School of Computer Science at Tel Aviv University. The co-founders are Amnon Shashua, an expert in fields such as AI, and computer scientist Shai Shalev-Shwartz. To date, Mentee Robotics has received 17 million dollars in investment.

At the Open-i conference on November 21 and 22 in Zurich, Lior Wolf will not only be one of around 70 speakers, but will also demonstrate MenteeBot live. Open-i describes itself as a Swiss innovation community and dialogue platform for business and science. The aim of Open-i is to unite science, business and successful managers with the next generation to safeguard Switzerland's leading role as an innovative and successful market. Open-i is organised by NZZ Connect, a branch of the NZZ based in Bern in Switzerland. Tickets are available now. ce/yvh

Mentee Robotics presents humanoid robot

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