On a bright spring morning in Hanover, Germany, the future of robotics was on full display at the Hannover Messe trade show. Among the many high-tech exhibits, one stood out: Unitree’s G1 humanoid robot. With its lifelike movements and engaging interactions, the G1 captivated visitors and showcased just how far robotics has come — and where it’s headed.
Unitree’s G1 Robot Steals the Spotlight
Standing at approximately 4 feet 3 inches (130 cm) tall, the G1 robot from Chinese robotics company Unitree is noticeably smaller than many of its humanoid counterparts. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in agility and affordability.
During a live demonstration, the G1 wowed attendees by performing smooth handshakes, moving gracefully across the floor, and even pulling off dance-like motions. Controlled remotely for the event, the robot’s fluidity drew admiration from the crowd, setting it apart from the more rigid movements often associated with industrial robots.
Pedro Zheng, Unitree’s sales manager, explained that the G1 needs manual programming to perform autonomous tasks. Still, its human-like interaction offers a unique appeal. Unlike many industrial machines that seem cold and mechanical, the G1 creates a connection with onlookers, making the technology feel more accessible and relatable.
The Growing Race to Build Humanoid Robots
Unitree is just one player in the rapidly expanding race to develop humanoid robots. These advanced machines are envisioned as the future workforce — offering labor without the need for vacations, sick days, or salary negotiations. The dream is to see them not only on factory floors but eventually in homes, assisting with daily chores.
However, achieving this goal isn’t easy. Real-world environments are unpredictable, and current AI technology still struggles with basic tasks involving logic and reasoning.
A Unitree spokesperson shared with the BBC that today’s robot AI has limitations, especially outside of controlled conditions. For now, the G1 is primarily sold to research institutions and tech companies, which use its open-source platform for further development and testing.
Why Factories Are the First Stop for Humanoid Robots
Right now, humanoid robots are being introduced mainly into industrial and manufacturing settings. Tesla’s Optimus robot, BMW’s robotic systems in U.S. factories, and Hyundai’s partnership with Boston Dynamics all highlight the growing trend of using robots to streamline production.
According to research firm STIQ, which tracks 49 humanoid robot developers worldwide, Chinese firms like Unitree are expected to dominate the field. Thanks to strong supply chains, large-scale manufacturing capabilities, and significant government support, nearly 60% of global humanoid robotics funding comes from Asia.
Unitree’s G1 is a perfect example of this trend. Priced at around $16,000 (£12,500), it demonstrates China’s ability to produce innovative technology at a fraction of the cost seen elsewhere. This affordability could be key in speeding up the adoption of humanoid robots globally.
European Companies Take a Different Approach
While Chinese companies focus on perfecting humanoid forms, European companies are thinking differently. Instead of designing robots to mimic humans exactly, they are focusing on functionality and practicality.
Bristol-based Kinisi, founded by robotics engineer Bren Pierce, recently introduced the KR1 — a robot designed specifically for warehouse use. Unlike traditional humanoid robots, the KR1 doesn’t attempt to walk. Instead, it rolls across factory floors on wheels salvaged from electric scooters.
Pierce emphasized that the goal is to make a machine that workers can learn to operate within a few hours. By using commercially available parts, Kinisi keeps costs low and focuses on delivering immediate value to industries, rather than pursuing the elusive dream of perfect human mimicry.
Home Robots: Still a Dream for the Future
Despite the exciting progress made by companies like Unitree and Kinisi, fully autonomous home robots remain a distant reality. Even among the industry’s most optimistic developers, a true “everything robot” capable of handling complex home tasks is believed to be at least 10 to 15 years away.
Bren Pierce, who has dedicated over two decades to robotics development, admitted the complexity of the challenge: Building the everything robot remains a very complicated task.
For now, humanoid robots like the G1 will continue finding their place in controlled environments such as factories, warehouses, and research labs. The dream of having a personal robot helper at home may take more time, but the foundation is being laid today.
The Future Looks Bright for Humanoid Robotics
Unitree’s G1 robot represents a significant step forward in making humanoid robotics more accessible and affordable. While challenges around AI reasoning, safety, and real-world adaptability remain, the progress displayed at Hannover Messe shows that the future is closer than ever.
As companies refine their designs and technology improves, humanoid robots are poised to transform industries — and one day, perhaps even everyday home life.
