At CES 2026, Orbbec introduced new stereo 3D cameras—Gemini 305 and Gemini 345Lg—designed to improve robotic vision in diverse settings. These launches come amid rising demand for reliable depth perception solutions in collaborative, industrial, and outdoor robotics. Alongside the product announcements, Orbbec revealed its cameras are fully compatible with NVIDIA Jetson Thor for streamlined integration, and detailed its plans to boost global production with new manufacturing capabilities in Vietnam and China. The company aims to equip robots with advanced vision in both precise indoor operations and challenging outdoor conditions, responding to evolving needs in automation and artificial intelligence sectors.
Orbbec’s earlier product releases have focused on structured light and ToF-based depth sensors, primarily serving stationary or consumer devices. While previous cameras targeted general industrial or scanning applications, the new Gemini 305 specifically addresses robotic wrist mounting and sub-millimeter precision at close range—a demand that has grown since the rise of collaborative and humanoid robotics. The Gemini 345Lg, with its focus on environmental durability, marks a shift toward solutions for mobile robots operating outdoors. Earlier Orbbec models lacked the combination of ultra-close minimum range, wide field of view, and customizable modes seen in the latest devices. The expanded global manufacturing network also contrasts with the company’s former reliance on single-region production, reflecting wider industry shifts in supply chain management.
What sets Gemini 305 apart for robotic arms?
The Gemini 305 is engineered for robotic wrist integration, offering a compact build and depth capabilities starting at just 4 cm. This model provides sub-millimeter accuracy and a broader field of view than previous generations, aiming to support precision grasping, object recognition, and manipulation by both collaborative robot arms and humanoid robot hands. The camera allows users to independently configure depth and color resolutions, helping users prioritize either data efficiency or image detail as needed. Multiple preset streaming modes—including quick transitions between “Color + Depth” and “Dual RGB”—offer flexibility for complex automation tasks.
How does the Gemini 345Lg support outdoor robotic operations?
Designed to operate in environments with significant temperature swings, dust, and moisture, the Gemini 345Lg features an IP67 rating and functions reliably from -20°C to 65°C. This model aims to meet the needs of autonomous equipment like inspection robots, outdoor logistics vehicles, and commercial mowers, ensuring robust 3D vision in conditions ranging from darkness to bright sunlight. Equipped with high-bandwidth data transmission hardware, the Gemini 345Lg supports consistent, long-distance operational integrity where electromagnetic interference and physical vibration commonly cause failures in less protected cameras.
How does platform compatibility with NVIDIA Jetson Thor benefit users?
Orbbec announced the full system-level validation of its Gemini 330 series with the NVIDIA Jetson Thor system-on-module, streamlining the pathway from data capture to AI inference for robot developers. This compatibility allows manufacturers to utilize the advanced processing of Jetson Thor while retaining flexible hardware integration. On this development, Dr. Li Wei, head of robotics product development at Orbbec, commented:
“The immense AI compute of NVIDIA Jetson Thor demands equally robust, high-quality visual data as fuel.”
He further stated,
“The deep synergy between the Gemini series and the Thor platform delivers a complete visual computing pipeline—from perception through decision-making—for embodied intelligence applications.”
Manufacturing expansion is also a notable part of Orbbec’s strategy. With a new base in Vietnam set to begin operations in May 2026, and ongoing production in Shunde, China, Orbbec is seeking to lower supply risks and provide comprehensive services from new product introduction to mass production. These developments come alongside international partnerships in sectors like warehouse automation, rehabilitation robotics, and cleaning solutions, offering not only accelerated go-to-market for clients but also flexibility in design and manufacturing approaches.
The developments in Orbbec’s Gemini series and allied manufacturing reflect ongoing changes in robotics vision requirements and supply chain strategies. For users or companies considering advanced robotics deployment, the integration of ultra-close, wide-FOV cameras with scalable production and AI-inference compatibility offers new options for designing and maintaining flexible, high-performance systems. Selecting a stereo vision solution today involves balancing customization, robustness, and integration support, which Orbbec is now addressing across several fronts. As automation applications diversify, maintaining adaptability in both vision technology and production capacity will be critical for companies wishing to remain competitive in the evolving robotics landscape.
