AI Meets Reality: From Algorithms to Autonomous Systems

Physical AI is leaving the lab - what does it take to make it work in the real world?

“AI Meets Reality – Testing the Future of Autonomous Systems” explores the journey from prototype to deployment, highlighting the critical role of testing, validation and collaboration in bringing safe and trustworthy autonomous systems into everyday life.

Hosted by LINA, a joint initiative of ZHAW, UZH, ZHdK and a growing network of industry partners, the event will showcase cutting-edge developments and prototypes, highlighting the journey from research to real-world deployment. Through inspiring talks, live demonstrations and an innovation fair, visitors will gain first-hand insights into how breakthrough ideas are tested, refined and translated into real-world impact.

Preliminary programme

13:30 – Keynotes by Prof. Davide Scaramuzza (UZH), Dr. Hella Bolck (ZHAW) and a third speaker to be announced

14:30 – Innovation Fair (~90 min): live demos, prototypes and emerging technologies presented by ZHAW, Stadt Winterhtur, https://www.matternet.com/ (drone delivery), https://binabik.ai/de (humanoid robotics) and more.

16:00 – Panel discussion: societal implications of Physical AI and autonomous systems led by Dr. Max Rheiner and Riva Pinto (ZHdK)

17:00 – Apéro & Networking

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Please note, that this is a curated event with limited seats. All registrations are reviewed individually, so your place is not confirmed at sign-up. You will receive a separate email once your registration has been approved.

The event brings together the growing ecosystem around Physical AI and autonomous systems. We welcome the entire ecosystem and those with a professional interest in shaping how intelligent autonomous systems move from promising prototypes to real-world impact.

+++ This event is part of the Zurich AI Festival, taking place from September 28 to October 3, 2026. Zurich AI Festival unites the minds building the future - visionary founders, bold investors, and tech leaders shaping tomorrow. Connect to tomorrow!

Zurich AI Festival is a flagship initiative presented by ETH AI Center, Greater Zurich Area, the City of Zurich, the Canton of Zurich, and Zurich Tourism, and supported by leading partners from academia, industry, government and the broader AI ecosystem.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Zurich AI Festival Team