Genesis AI launches GENE-26.5 robot-control model and unveils human-like robotic hand

Genesis AI, a French robotics startup, said on Wednesday it has launched an artificial intelligence model designed to control a range of robots — including machines made by other manufacturers — and unveiled a human-like robotic hand aimed at improving dexterity for industrial tasks.

The company said the model, called GENE-26.5, is intended to make robots more adaptable in settings where conventional systems can struggle with delicate or variable work. Genesis AI added that it is in advanced discussions with potential customers in France, Germany and Italy.

Founded in early 2025, Genesis AI said it raised $105 million in an initial funding round. Backers include former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, telecoms entrepreneur Xavier Niel and state investment bank Bpifrance. The company said it expects to raise additional capital to support growth, while adding that a public listing is premature.

Focus on European industry

Co-founded by former Mistral researcher Theophile Gervet, Genesis AI said it is targeting industrial sectors including automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals and logistics.

The company highlighted wire harnessing — bundling and taping cables — as an example of a task that can be difficult to automate with traditional industrial robots.

Robotic hand demos and competition

Genesis AI said its robotic hand is designed to more closely mirror human anatomy than standard grippers, with the aim of enabling a more direct transfer of human motion to machines.

The company said it has demonstrated the hand performing tasks including chopping tomatoes and solving a Rubik’s Cube.

Genesis AI said it is competing with other developers of dexterous robotic hands, including China’s Linkerbot.