Uber cofounder Kalanick introduces Atoms in a push for specialized robots

Travis Kalanick on Friday launched a new startup called Atoms, which focuses on specialized industrial robots designed to automate tasks across sectors such as mining, transport and food services.

Kalanick is betting that task-specific robots, rather than general-purpose humanoid machines, will be the key to improving industrial productivity. The new venture is an expansion and rebranding of City Storage Systems, the company he began developing after leaving Uber.

In a statement, Kalanick said the company’s approach is centered on what he described as “gainfully employed robots,” meaning machines designed for specific jobs that can generate economic value by performing those tasks efficiently. He believes specialized robots will have a clearer path to profitability as industries increasingly adopt automation to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Interest in specialized robotics has been growing as sectors such as transport, waste management and industrial operations look for ways to automate repetitive and labor-intensive tasks. At the same time, the development of general-purpose humanoid robots continues to face major technical challenges, including enabling machines to navigate unpredictable environments and develop advanced reasoning abilities.

Kalanick said the new startup will be structured into three main divisions. Atoms Food will focus on building infrastructure and automation systems for the food industry. Atoms Mining will aim to increase productivity in mining operations through robotics and automation. The third division, Atoms Transport, will develop robotic mobility systems that Kalanick described as a “wheelbase for robots.”

Kalanick stepped down as chief executive of Uber in 2017 after pressure from investors during a turbulent period for the ride-hailing company. He later left the company’s board in 2019.

Writing on the startup’s website, Kalanick said he felt “heartbroken” after departing Uber but now sees the launch of Atoms as a return to his core mission of building what he calls “atoms-based computers.” These are specialized systems that combine robotics with physical artificial intelligence to automate real-world tasks and operations.