Humanoid robots: the 18 companies leading the new AI race

The race for humanoid robots brings together companies from the United States, Europe, and Asia. The goal is to create safe, scalable, and useful systems for industrial, logistical, and domestic tasks.

According to a survey by Forbes, the combination of artificial intelligence, automation, and robotics could transform physical work over the coming decades.

Why humanoid robots attract so much investment

Unlike traditional robots, which are usually designed for a single task, humanoid robots aim to operate in environments created for people.

The theoretical advantage is that they can use existing tools, move in already constructed spaces, and adapt to different functions without modifying the environment.

Expectations are high. Investors, manufacturers, and tech companies believe these systems could help fill labor shortages, perform risky tasks, and assist in everyday activities.

The companies leading the humanoid robot race

1X Technologies

The company backed by OpenAI is betting on the domestic market with its robot Neo. The company projects deliveries in 2026 and aims to turn it into a home assistant.

AgiBot

The Chinese firm backed by BYD is among the first to produce humanoids at scale. According to various reports, it has already delivered 10,000 units.

Agility Robotics

Its robot Digit was designed for logistics and warehouses. The company collaborated with Amazon and has a facility capable of producing up to 10,000 robots per year.

Apptronik

It developed Apollo, a humanoid aimed at factories and logistics centers. Mercedes-Benz is already using this technology in some of its operations.

Boston Dynamics

The company has become a global reference thanks to its advances in robotic mobility. It is currently working to transfer that technology to industrial applications.

BYD

The electric vehicle manufacturer is developing its own capabilities in humanoid robotics and maintains partnerships with companies like AgiBot and UBTech.

Engine AI

The Chinese company stands out for developing robots with more natural movements. It has reportedly achieved the first forward somersault performed by a humanoid.

Figure AI

BMW has already used its robot Figure 02 in tasks related to automotive production. The startup is backed by OpenAI, Nvidia, and Microsoft.

Fourier

The company has evolved from medical rehabilitation to multipurpose humanoids. Its design prioritizes safe interaction with people.

Neura Robotics

The German company is developing the 4NE1 model, equipped with synthetic skin capable of detecting physical contact and lifting up to 100 kilos.

Samsung

The South Korean giant aims to integrate humanoid robots into its factories powered by artificial intelligence. The company is betting on large-scale production.

Sanctuary AI

Its robot Phoenix focuses on manual dexterity and fine motor control. The company is already collaborating with Magna International.

Tesla

Optimus is one of the most well-known projects in the sector. Elon Musk claims that humanoid robots could become an even more important business than cars.

Toyota

The automaker is exploring industrial and assistive applications. Through the Toyota Research Institute, it is developing platforms aimed at caring for people.

UBTech Robotics

The Chinese company specializes in industrial implementations and has one of the largest databases on humanoid robot activity in factories.

Unitree Robotics

The company gained notoriety for offering more accessible humanoids. Its G1 and H1 models have an approximate price of US$ 16,000.

Xiaomi

The Chinese tech company is participating in the race with CyberOne, a robot equipped with advanced vision, language, and action systems.

What challenges do humanoid robots face

The main challenge for the sector is to demonstrate real utility beyond exhibitions and prototypes. The systems must be safe, reliable, accessible, and cost-effective.

Factories and warehouses appear as the first scenarios for mass adoption. Homes and care centers could come at a later stage.