November 10, 2026 – Leading European chipmakers Infineon, STMicroelectronics and NXP believe Europe has a strong opportunity to compete with the United States and Asia in robotics and physical artificial intelligence (AI). Their chief executives discussed the region’s potential during an industry gathering in Munich on November 9, according to firsthand reporting from Reuters. Their message focused on Europe’s existing strengths, rather than claiming that the region has already overtaken its competitors.
Physical AI refers to technology that allows machines to understand their surroundings and perform actions in the real world. Unlike AI systems that mainly generate text or images, physical AI connects intelligent software with sensors, processors and movement controls. A factory robot, for example, needs to recognize objects, adjust its movements and respond safely when conditions change. TechBonafide’s guide to how physical AI works in robots and smart machines explains these technologies in more detail.
The executives believe Europe’s experience in automotive manufacturing, industrial equipment and semiconductor development could provide a competitive advantage. Their companies already produce important electronic components that help machines sense movement, manage power and control motors. These technologies are essential for robots that must work reliably in factories, warehouses and other environments.
Infineon CEO Jochen Hanebeck described industrial and physical AI as an important opportunity that Europe needs to pursue. STMicroelectronics CEO Jean-Marc Chery emphasized cooperation between chip manufacturers and robotics developers, including the use of computer simulations to train machines before they begin operating in real environments. NXP CEO Rafael Sotomayor also highlighted the importance of building dependable systems, particularly because mistakes involving moving machines can cause physical harm.
NXP provided a concrete example on November 9 when it introduced a unified robotics platform combining software tools and ready-made hardware designs. Its initial products support drone development and are available now. The company plans to expand support to other autonomous systems in the second half of 2027. However, its claims about faster development have not been independently established for every possible application.
Infineon is also developing new technology for intelligent machines. On November 4, the company announced its AURIX RC1 microcontroller platform, designed for software-controlled vehicles and physical AI applications that require fast, reliable responses. Infineon expects to provide initial samples during the first half of 2027. This means the platform is still approaching its sampling stage and should not be described as already widely deployed.
STMicroelectronics is concentrating on sensors and control systems that help robots respond to their surroundings. In an official account of its humanoid robotics work, the company confirmed a December 2025 agreement with Italian robotics developer Oversonic to introduce its RoBee humanoid robots into factory production and logistics operations. Reuters reported that the first robot had already been installed at an STMicroelectronics facility in Malta. However, that installation does not establish that humanoid robots are operating across the company’s wider factory network.
The latest comments also follow earlier calls for Europe to strengthen its humanoid robotics supply chain. European manufacturers have experience producing industrial machinery, sensors and electronic control systems, but building competitive robots at scale requires more than technological expertise. Companies must also address manufacturing costs, system integration, safety requirements and the ability to operate reliably over long periods.
For robotics developers, factory operators and semiconductor companies, this development matters because physical AI creates demand for more than powerful AI processors. Machines also need components that can make quick decisions, control movements precisely and use electricity efficiently. European suppliers could benefit if the market for industrial robots and autonomous equipment continues to expand. Whether individual products deliver better performance or lower costs will depend on real-world results.
The Munich discussion did not provide independently verified evidence that Europe has surpassed the United States or Asia in robotics production, performance or commercial adoption. Many advanced robotics projects remain in development or limited testing. For now, the executives’ statements reflect confidence in Europe’s potential, supported by ongoing product development and early industrial applications. The next challenge will be turning those technologies into safe, reliable and commercially successful systems.
