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Skyline Robotics leverages industrial robot arms to autonomously wash skyscraper windows. | Credit: Skyline Robotics

Skyline Robotics, developers of OZMO, the world’s first high-rise window-cleaning robot, is delivering on its mission to modernize facade health technology in New York City. The company announced a key investment from commercial and residential real estate giant, Durst Ventures, an affiliate of The Durst Organization that owns some of New York’s most notable skyscrapers including One Bryant Park, One World Trade Center, and 151 West 42nd Street.

The Durst investment will further Skyline’s development and deployment of OZMO, while The Durst Organization plans to utilize OZMO to enhance the quality of service provided to its tenants and residents.

“As the real estate industry evolves, demand is growing for modern solutions that will not only maintain their assets but will monitor and enhance the underlying asset value,” said Michael Brown, CEO & Chairman, of Skyline Robotics. “Skyline Robotics is at the forefront of this new direction, and the support from The Durst Organization and the real estate community shows that the need and demand for our technology are necessary and vital.”

Today, service providers and real estate developers are searching for new and innovative ways to position their assets as data-driven and data-enhanced. Skyline Robotics reimagines an antiquated industry by combining proptech and robotics to create a new path forward. To combat issues like labor shortages and worker safety, Skyline has developed a flagship robot called OZMO that blends AI, machine learning, and computer vision with cutting-edge robotics and sensors.

As much as three times as fast as people, OZMO can clean windows without endangering its staff. In addition, because humans control OZMO, it is not displacing human window washers but rather hastening the day when humans and robots collaborate in the workplace. An intelligent, speedier, safer, and less expensive replacement for human window washers has been achieved.

“New York City is world-renowned for its skyscrapers and it is imperative that the facades of its iconic skyline be maintained,” said Jonathan (Jody) Durst, president of The Durst Organization. “Skyline Robotics is forging an innovative path forward for facade maintenance, leveraging cutting-edge technology that will transform how we maintain and determine the health of our buildings.”

Durst continued, “Skyline’s transformative approach to property owners’ problems is a perfect fit for Durst Ventures. As a generational real estate owner, The Durst Organization provides the highest quality of service to its residents and tenants. We are excited to partner with the Skyline team on the future of façade maintenance. With this investment, Durst Ventures will become a steward of innovation within real estate.”

Michael Brown, CEO, and Ross Blum, COO of Skyline Robotics, recently appeared on Episode 89 of The Robot Report Podcast. They discuss the company’s genesis and how the business is set to grow in the future.