The Japanese government's Regulatory Reform Promotion Council announced on June 24, 2026, that it will include provisions in its recommendations to clarify the legal status of walking robots utilizing Physical AI and to promote field trials on public roads.

Physical AI technology represents a significant frontier for Japanese startups and robotics companies, combining advanced artificial intelligence with physical hardware. The government aims to create an enabling regulatory environment that balances innovation with safety.

This regulatory framework development is expected to accelerate startup innovation in the robotics and AI sectors, positioning Japan as a leader in autonomous physical systems and supporting the commercialization of next-generation robotic solutions.