Boston Dynamics has released update 5.1 for its quadrupedal robot, Spot, and Orbit, its robot fleet management software. The update includes enhancements in AI models, expands data collection capabilities, and adds new features such as door opening and acoustic visualization. Notably, Spot can now open doors even without using a manipulator, capable of traversing motion-sensor doors and access-controlled entries. According to Boston Dynamics, this feature was successfully tested by 18 beta clients, helping to open 2,500 doors.
The new Spot Cam 2 extends the robot’s capabilities for visual and acoustic monitoring. It features a 4K PTZ camera (pan, tilt, zoom) with 25x optical zoom, a thermal imager, and a spherical camera offering a 360 by 130-degree field of view. An additional accessory bay is compatible with Sorama L642 and Fluke SV600 acoustic cameras, allowing the robot to detect leaks and monitor equipment status.
Update 5.1 also includes new missions for Spot, such as area patrol. If the robot detects a person during patrol, it stops, activates signal lights, takes pictures with the PTZ, panoramic, and thermal cameras, sends an alert, and resumes its route. It represents an advancement in autonomous security solutions, echoing the industry shift towards integrating robotic systems in various sectors.
Boston Dynamics additionally presented a commercial version of the humanoid robot Atlas, first showcased at CES 2026 earlier this month. Standing at 1.9 meters with an arm span of 2.3 meters, Atlas can operate in temperatures from -20°C to 40°C and lift loads up to 30 kg, reducing workplace injury risks. The company plans to produce thousands of robots yearly thanks to its collaboration with Hyundai Motor Group. Hyundai will be the first customer to employ Atlas in its Robotics Meta-Application Center (RMAC), highlighting potential for innovative applications in industrial and service sectors.
Google DeepMind continues to aid Boston Dynamics in training AI for humanoid robots, emphasizing the convergence of cutting-edge robotics and advanced AI technologies.
