Apertus the Swiss AI Model – Why physical AI needs independent Foundation Models?

Apertus the Swiss AI Model – Why physical AI needs independent Foundation Models?

Apertus – the Swiss AI Model: Explore how “Physical AI” brings intelligence from the cloud into the real world, powering robots, devices, and industry with trustworthy, sovereign AI. We’ll unpack why independent foundation models matter for safety, privacy, and resilience—and what a Swiss-built alternative enables for businesses and public institutions. Join us to discuss what comes next.

Target Group:

  • Telecommunication Operators
  • Technology and Innovation Leaders
  • Regulatory and Compliance Teams
  • Business Development & Strategy Executives
  • Public Sector and Critical Infrastructure Stakeholders

Workshop Goals:

  • Understand the concept of “Physical AI”
  • Highlight the strategic importance of independent foundation models
  • Showcase Apertus as a Swiss-built, sovereign AI alternative
  • Facilitate knowledge exchange
  • Co-create a roadmap for future collaboration

Speaker:

iDr. Daniel Dobos is Research Director at Swisscom, leading AI research partnerships with EPFL, ETH Zürich, and the Swiss AI Initiative Apertus. A former CERN and UN researcher, he combines scientific rigor with strategic foresight in AI and data analytics. Dobos collaborates closely with Helbling Group and Swiss industry partners to advance sovereign AI and responsible innovation across research and business domains. His work centers on creating secure, explainable, and sustainable AI systems that strengthen Switzerland’s technological independence.

Dr. Knut Sauer is Helbling Groups SVP for advanced Technology and Physical AI, where he drives the integration of artificial intelligence into industrial and engineering innovation. With a PhD in neural network applications and executive background in deep-tech ventures, he focuses on applying AI to complex physical systems and sustainable industrial transformation. His work connects robotics, automation, and data-driven design within Helbling’s multidisciplinary ecosystem of engineering and business consulting experts. Helbling is the European Deeptech Product development company serving many Fortune 500 companies.