Humanoid Robotics: A Booming Industry with Low-Price Options
Competition Heats Up
PARIS: The humanoid robotics sector is experiencing a surge in competition between US-based Boston Dynamics and China’s Unitree. Unitree has taken a major step forward with the mass marketing of its robots, offering attractive prices for professionals.
Both Boston Dynamics and Unitree have a large number of projects in the pipeline. This year, the American company presented a new version of its famous Atlas humanoid robot, in a fully electric, autonomous form that is more dexterous than before. It is due to be tested in a car factory before being put into production. Currently, only the Spot dog robot is marketed on a large scale.
Unitree’s Pioneering Move
However, Chinese manufacturer Unitree is now hitting back hard with the mass production of its robots for industry, with its two humanoid robots, the H1 and the G1. The brand’s premium model is Unitree H1, a large humanoid robot that stands 1.8 meters tall and can lift heavy loads. It moves autonomously and naturally, whether walking or running, and can perform relatively complex repetitive tasks.
The G1: A More Affordable Option
Much more affordable is the G1, a 1.3-meter tall robot that is just as useful. It walks naturally and is remarkably flexible, resisting shocks and assaults, and can even stand up on its own. Its biggest asset is its ability to "learn" to reproduce many gestures over time, allowing it to handle tasks such as handling a stick or a soldering iron, opening a bottle or cracking nuts. A weak point is its low level of autonomy, which is only two hours. However, the model is now available at the unbeatable price of US$16,000.
Next Generation Robots
While Unitree is the first to bring its humanoid robots to the mass market, it is far from the only one producing such models. Xiaomi, for example, is working on a robot capable of interacting with humans, notably by recognizing the emotions of nearby individuals. Tesla in the USA continues to perfect its Optimus robot. This year, start-up Figure has teamed up with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its humanoid robot, enabling it to respond to almost everything and easily manipulate objects and express emotions.
The Future of Humanoid Robotics
Combined with artificial intelligence, these robots could one day interact automatically with humans, both in the workplace and at home. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more advanced and affordable options emerge, revolutionizing the way humans live and work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the H1 and G1 models?
A: The H1 is a larger, more advanced robot with a higher price point, while the G1 is a more compact and affordable option.
Q: What is the primary use for these humanoid robots?
A: The primary use is for industrial and professional applications, such as manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance.
Q: How long does the G1’s battery last?
A: The G1’s battery lasts for approximately two hours.