Physical AI represents the next phase in the evolution of AI, where intelligence transcends digital environments to enter systems that operate in the physical world. Unlike digital AI applications, these systems must perceive, decide, and act safely in real time with deterministic behavior. Robotics, particularly humanoid robots, is an example of physical AI and requires seamless integration between embedded processing, sensing, actuation, power management, software, and development tools.

The creation of the lab further reinforces Renesas' commitment to physical AI as a key area for long-term growth, following the creation of the Physical AI Division on July 1, 2026.

“Humanoid robots are becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex, driving demand for hardware and software systems that must work seamlessly together,” said Ivo Marocco, Vice President and Chief User Experience (UX) Officer at Renesas. “Currently, Renesas can cover approximately 30% of the bill of materials (BOM) for humanoid robots, and we see an opportunity to expand that coverage to 70% thanks to our strengths in control, power, sensors, AI, software, and ecosystem solutions. Our new lab will help customers validate complete systems and accelerate the deployment of next-generation robotic innovations.”.

“China continues to lead in robotics innovation and adoption thanks to its broad customer base, highly collaborative ecosystem, and comprehensive supply chain service system,” said Yvonne Liu, Vice President and President of Renesas China. “Renesas will leverage its Physical AI Lab in Beijing and its technological capabilities to collaborate closely with customers, ecosystem partners, universities, and startups. As part of Renesas’s key strategy in China, this lab will accelerate the technical implementation of physical AI systems.”.

The lab will integrate hardware, software, AI modeling, control, power supply, sensors, and system-level verification to support the entire engineering process, from development to implementation. As a platform connecting customer needs, ecosystem resources, and advanced technologies, the lab will go beyond simply showcasing products to support the validation and co-development of complete robotic solutions.

Renesas is uniquely positioned to serve the physical AI and humanoid robotics segment with a comprehensive portfolio covering key system domains such as brain and motion control, sensing, actuation, and energy management. With decades of experience in automotive and industrial applications, Renesas combines hardware technologies with functional safety, edge AI, and Renesas 365, its cloud-based electronics development platform, to help customers design safer, smarter, and more scalable robotic systems.