China-based robotics company Unitree Robotics has announced its new humanoid robot model, the R1, priced at just $5,900. Standing out with its advanced artificial intelligence features, mobility, and interaction capabilities, the R1 holds the potential to bring humanoid robot technology, which has previously been limited to large institutions due to its high cost, to a wider audience.
Affordable humanoid robot unveiled
Weighing 25 kilograms, the R1 has 26 movable joints. The robot features an artificial intelligence system that supports image and voice recognition. Promotional videos show the R1 dancing, running, and performing combat moves.
In addition to acrobatic performances, the device’s prominent features include its ability to respond to voice commands, analyze its environment, and respond appropriately to the situation. The robot’s built-in large language model (LLM) enables more intelligent, human-like interactions.
The launch of a humanoid robot offering this level of functionality at a price of $5,900 directly impacts market price perception. The G1 model, previously offered by Unitree, was priced at $16,000, while the larger, more advanced H1 model sold for over $90,000. Comparatively, the Unitree R1 saw a significant price drop.
Until now, costs have been a significant barrier to adoption in robotics for both individuals and small businesses. By 2024, the average cost of the most advanced humanoid robots on the market was around $200,000. In this context, Unitree’s R1 model is becoming a significant option for both individual use and small-scale professional applications.
The R1’s launch is being evaluated not only for its price advantage but also as a way to enhance China’s global competitiveness in robotics. Chinese manufacturers’ price-performance-focused approach is noteworthy, as it competes with US-based companies like Boston Dynamics, which have long held leadership positions in this field.
Unitree’s new product signals that robots could become more widely used not only in laboratory or industrial settings, but also in homes, educational spaces, or, in the future, in defense systems.
