Apptronik

US efforts to build a competitive humanoid robotics industry are facing complications from tariffs on Chinese goods. Many critical components for these advanced robots are sourced from China, and the new levies risk increasing costs and slowing US progress relative to state-supported Chinese firms.

Logistics giant GXO is piloting humanoid robots from Agility Robotics, Apptronik, and Reflex Robotics in its warehouses. While optimistic about their multi-task potential driven by AI, the company notes current limitations in dexterity and scale, using its facilities as 'labs' to provide feedback.

A new market report projects the global humanoid robot market will soar from $2.37 billion in 2023 to over $113 billion by 2033, driven by demand in caregiving, defense, and retail automation. While hardware and wheeled robots dominate now, software and bipedal models are expected to see the fastest growth. North America leads, but Asia-Pacific and Africa are poised for rapid expansion.

Executives from Agility Robotics and Apptronik discuss the drivers, challenges, and future outlook for humanoid robots. Key topics include labor shortages, AI integration, safety standards, deployment hurdles in workplaces vs. homes, and the path toward commercialization in logistics, manufacturing, and potentially eldercare.

Mercedes-Benz is pioneering the integration of humanoid robots into its manufacturing processes