Winner of Propel‍-‍AIR robotics and AI sprint announced

ARM Hub has announced this year’s winner of the Propel-AIR AI and robotics sprint, crowning Sydney-based tactile sensing company Contactile.

Founded out of UNSW Sydney in 2019, Contactile is developing bio-inspired tactile sensors and grippers that enable robots to measure force, slip, and friction. The sensors create a human sense of touch, allowing reliable handling of delicate or variable objects without damage.

Following 2025’s winner NexoBot, Contactile will undertake a month-long residency at MassRobotics, the heart of global robotics innovation in Boston.

“The market timing for tactile intelligence has never been better. As physical AI moves from demonstration to deployment, robots need a reliable sense of touch, and Contactile is perfectly positioned to deliver it,” said Dr Heba Khamis, Founder and CEO of Contactile. “This is a tremendous opportunity to connect with the Boston robotics ecosystem and build relationships with some of the most exciting companies developing in the physical AI space.”

Melbourne-based SpatioTemporal was named runner-up for its intent-aware motion intelligence layer for physical AI, with founder Andrew Ballard showing a standout performance across the sprint.

Following this milestone, ARM Hub and MassRobotics have signed a memorandum of understanding to formalise closer collaboration between Brisbane and Boston. Contactile’s residency will be the first initiative delivered under the agreement.

“As this year’s winner, Contactile will embed in one of the world's densest robotics ecosystems. It is the right technology at the right time, and Boston is the right place to prove it,” said Professor Cori Stewart, CEO of ARM Hub.

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