1

    Personal Robots Hit The Consumer Mainstream

    Personal Robotics | May 12, 2008

    According to ABI Research Principal Analyst Philip Solis, in an interview first published in IQ Online, the personal robotics market has arrived with ‘bots quickly carving a market for themselves in the consumer psyche.

    2

    Microsoft Releases Preview of New Version of Its Robotics Platform

    Design and Development | May 12, 2008

    Microsoft has made the first community technology preview (CTP) of Microsoft Robotics Developer Studio 2008 available for evaluation and testing by developers, customers and partners.  The software development platform is designed to make programming robots easier and more affordable for hobbyists and professionals alike.  The final product is scheduled to be released later in 2008.

    3

    Unmanned Aircraft to Study Southern California Smog and its Consequences

    Service Robotics | May 12, 2008

    Using unmanned aerial vehicles, researchers from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography are undertaking a long-term survey will profile pollutants to determine how much of Southern California’s air pollution comes from Asia, Mexico and from regions north of California.

    4

    New Robots Can Provide Elder Care For Aging Baby Boomers

    Robotics Trends Feature | May 12, 2008

    Over 77 million baby boomers will retire in the next 30 years, and robots are ready to assist with elder care. Engineers have created a robotic assistant that can recognize medical emergencies and call 911, remind clients to take their medication, help with grocery shopping and cleaning and allow retirees to communicate with loved ones.

    5

    Kiva and Walgreens Expand Use of Mobile Fulfillment Solution for Retail Store Restocking

    Service Robotics | May 01, 2008

    Based on initial stage performance results for a for retail replenishment application that far exceeded expectations, Walgreens has agreed to expand the Kiva Mobile Fulfillment System at its Mt. Vernon, Illinois facility.

    6

    Coroware Appoints Kris Erikson Director of Microsoft Practice

    Robotics Trends Feature | May 01, 2008

    Software and robotic solutions company prepares for next level of growth by hiring a dedicated director for its Microsoft practice.