PAL Robotics plans to present its autonomous RFID-scanning robot, StockBot, at the NRF 2026 retail trade show in New York. According to the company, the robot is designed to conduct automated inventory checks in warehouses, distribution centers and retail stores by scanning and mapping stock and integrating the data with retailers’ inventory management systems.
PAL Robotics states that StockBot performs continuous RFID-based inventory cycles with a reported read accuracy of about 99 percent, aiming to reduce manual counting and data-entry errors. The company says the robot can operate in environments ranging from reception areas for incoming goods to low-ceiling warehouses and large retail stores, navigating layouts autonomously and updating item positions in real time.
The company reports that the system is intended to identify hidden or unregistered inventory, detect discrepancies that can lead to failed pickings, and support loss-prevention processes through anomaly detection. PAL Robotics also links the use of automated inventory data to reduced overproduction and transport by providing more accurate stock information. The robot is described as operating for up to 12 hours per charge and includes RFID hardware, 2D lidar and 3D perception sensors.
PAL Robotics, founded in 2004 and known for developing humanoid and service robots, has participated in multiple research collaborations. The company positions StockBot as part of its broader work on automation technologies for retail and industrial applications.
