The breakthrough could chart a new course for robotics and AI. ugo
Robots just got a nose, giving machines a whole new way to sense the world.
In a major step forward for sensory robotics, Ainos has installed its AI Nose on a humanoid robot built by ugo, Japan’s leading service robotics company.
The collaboration introduces a new class of robots that can perceive the world not just through sight and sound, but also through smell, enabling them to make more intuitive and intelligent decisions that will transform industries, public health, and everyday life.
The installation, which was completed on April 9, marks the first time the technology has been integrated into a commercial-grade humanoid robot for real-world use.
The breakthrough could chart a new course for robotics, AI, and human-machine interaction.
A new class of robots
Ainos’ AI Nose system combines a high-precision gas sensor array, real-time signal processing, and advanced AI algorithms to identify and digitize a wide range of scents, turning them into unique “Smell IDs.”
These Smell IDs allow the robot to detect odors and environmental conditions in a way similar to human olfaction.
“This marks a turning point for AI-powered sensing. With smell added to the sensory stack, robots can now understand their environments in ways previously reserved for living beings. In my opinion, it’s a game-changer for healthcare, industry, and everyday life,” Ainos Chairman, President and CEO Chun-Hsien (Eddy) Tsai said.
ugo ceo Ken Matsui called it a major leap forward for service robotics.
“Olfaction is a key missing piece in robot perception. By integrating Ainos’ AI Nose, we’re giving our robots the missing sense – one that will transform how they navigate and interact with real-world spaces.”
Next stop: Real-world trials
The companies will now enter the next critical phase of development, which includes user interface (UI) design and back-end control system integration, as well as fine-tuning the sensory parameters and response logic. The projected timeline for completing this stage is 2 to 4 weeks.
Once the development phase is finished, the system will undergo real-world deployment tests in active environments such as commercial buildings and public spaces.
These tests will feature real-time odor detection and safety alert demonstrations, alongside live data collection for deep learning and AI model training. The team will also focus on application development for various sectors, including security, elder care, hygiene monitoring, and industrial use.
“We’re executing with speed and precision. With just about over a month of announcing our partnership with ugo, we’ve moved into the installation phase, bringing AI Nose one step closer to real-world deployment. This milestone reflects our commitment to leading the digitization of scent and expanding the sensory intelligence of robotics,” Tsai said.
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Transforming industries with smell
The potential of robotic smell goes far beyond mere novelty. Ainos’ AI Nose technology is set to revolutionize the future of smart infrastructure.
In smart manufacturing, these robots could help detect gas leaks, chemical anomalies, and process deviations in real-time, offering an unprecedented level of precision.
Additionally, the technology could play a crucial role in workplace and facility safety by identifying hazardous odors or air contamination.
In healthcare and elderly care, it will monitor hygiene, detect infections, and spot early disease indicators, ultimately saving lives.
Consumer applications also offer a world of possibilities, from transforming smart homes and elevating pet care to keeping food fresh and supporting personal wellness.
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Neetika Walter With over a decade-long career in journalism, Neetika Walter has worked with The Economic Times, ANI, and Hindustan Times, covering politics, business, technology, and the clean energy sector. Passionate about contemporary culture, books, poetry, and storytelling, she brings depth and insight to her writing. When she isn’t chasing stories, she’s likely lost in a book or enjoying the company of her dogs.
