Boston Dynamics

Boston Dynamics is a robotics company based in Massachusetts, United States. It was acquired by Hyundai Motor Group in 2021. The Robotics and AI Institute (RAI), founded in 2022, focuses on robot control and perception research and developed the whole-body learning framework used in the Atlas humanoid robot.

In October 2026, Boston Dynamics unveiled a new hand design for its Atlas robot. The device features four fingers and 13 degrees of freedom, utilizing direct actuation to eliminate fragile cables. This design shifts focus from the previous 7-degree-of-freedom grasping configuration to dexterous tool manipulation, such as operating drills and welding torches. High-density tactile sensors are integrated into the fingertips and palm to support in-hand manipulation and the use of standard industrial tools. The company stated that the hand is optimized for high-fidelity simulation and reinforcement learning, aiming to improve reliability and maintainability for industrial applications.

In September 2026, reports indicated that SoftBank agreed to acquire RAI from Hyundai Motor Group. The deal is under review by the U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and would reunite SoftBank with the research lab behind Boston Dynamics' latest technology. Also in September 2026, industry commentary highlighted the complexity of recycling humanoid robots due to their high component count and hazardous materials, urging manufacturers to adopt design-for-recycling principles.

Boston Dynamics is expanding its presence in industrial settings, with LS Electric deploying Spot robots at its Busan facility. The company also detailed its endurance testing methodology for the Stretch robot, explaining how accelerated life testing simulates long-term component wear. Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group is operating a training facility at its Metaplant where Atlas humanoids learn part transport and sequencing tasks.