From 2024 to 2025: how logistics robotics is evolving

CES 2025 Recap

Cohost Mike Oitzman discussed his takeaways for robots at CES 2025. In his recap article, Mike outlines some of the memorable robots on display in Las Vegas. The highlights include a first ride in a Zoox robotaxi and an exciting finish to the first four-vehicle autonomous racecar event with the Autonomous Indy Challenge.

The Oshkosh HARR-E autonomous refuse robot demo was one of the innovative displays at CES 2025.

Intel spinning out RealSense as a standalone company

Intel is spinning out RealSense as an independent company. Intel said this will be done in the first half of 2025, with the new business being an Intel Capital portfolio company. Intel said spinning out RealSense is not a direct result of the company’s recent financial struggles. The new version of RealSense will maintain the same product roadmap, and the same SKUs, and will continue providing the same support and level of service for its customers.

Symbotic to acquire Walmart robotics unit for $200M and build new systems

Symbotic Inc. today said that it will acquire Walmart’s Advanced Systems and Robotics business. The supply chain robotics company said the transaction expands its relationship with Walmart with the goal of “developing an integrated supply chain.”

The total consideration for Symbotic’s acquisition is $200 million in cash at close, subject to customary adjustments, and up to $350 million in additional contingent consideration, depending on the number of Accelerated Pickup and Delivery (APD) systems ordered. Walmart plans to pay Symbotic a total of $520 million, including $230 million at closing, for the development of the new systems.

Catch our end-of-year recaps