Hundreds of robotic technologies coming to Edinburgh that could change everyday life
“Scotland is already playing an important role in shaping the future of robotics” – Lynne Baillie, Heriot-Watt University
Robots that help autistic children develop communication skills and tech to support people to live independently will be among more than 800 robotic technologies featured at a global conference this week in Edinburgh.
The event, at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC), centres on key questions for the sector, including how robots can be woven into everyday life such as in workplaces, hospitals and homes, without creating inequality or displacing the people they are meant to serve.
The world’s top human-robot interaction researchers will gather in the capital, with big corporate names including Amazon, Google, Honda and Meta set to participate. Edinburgh joins a distinguished list of previous host cities spanning the US, Europe, Asia and Australia.
Members of the public are invited to meet the robots and the researchers building them at a free event on Tuesday March 17 (4.30pm to 6pm) at the EICC. Visitors can explore live demonstrations, take part in hands-on activities and speak directly with scientists and engineers.
The Human Robot Interaction (HRI) Conference comes as the Scottish government increases investment in robotics and autonomous systems, with recent initiatives including the Robotics Adoption Fund and the Scottish RAS Cluster Pilot, both being delivered by the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University. Ministers have identified the sector as having transformational potential across healthcare, education, manufacturing and public services.
Lynne Baillie, general chair of HRI 2026 and a scientist at Heriot-Watt University, said: “Human-robot interaction focuses on how we design technologies that work for people in real situations. We are already seeing robots used to support learning, healthcare and independent living.
“Hosting HRI 2026 in Edinburgh is a significant moment for Scotland. It highlights the strength of robotics research taking place here and brings international expertise to share ideas, technologies and experiences.
“Scotland is already playing an important role in shaping the future of robotics. With the right investment and collaboration between government, universities and industry, we can remain at the forefront of developing technologies that transform society,” she added.
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Among the technologies that is due to be on show is QTrobot, an “expressive social robot” designed to help autistic children develop communication and social skills. Developed by LuxAI, a spinout from the University of Luxembourg, it uses interactive games, visual prompts and movement to create a structured, engaging learning environment.
Also being showcased is Reachy Mini, an open-source humanoid robot developed by French company Pollen Robotics. As part of their work, researchers are using robotics to explore how technology can handle everyday objects, navigate real environments and collaborate with people in homes, hospitals and workplaces.
Researchers and organisations working on socially assistive robotics will present insights into how robots are being deployed in therapy and special educational needs settings, exploring how technology can support teachers and therapists while reducing barriers to access.
A special session, supported by Meta, will look at how humanoid robots move from lab prototypes to living rooms and ask what people actually need and question how we build machines worthy of a place in our homes.
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