Humanoid robots are machines designed to replicate human appearance and behavior. They also represent a pinnacle of engineering achievement. To even try mimicking human-like movements, a humanoid robot must feature:

• LiDARs for advanced spatial mapping and autonomous navigation
• adaptive control systems for real-time adjustments and path planning
• motion actuators that enable smooth, life like movement
• calibrated joints for grasping and walking movements
• high-resolution sensors and depth cameras for tactile feedback
• speech recognition systems for communication
• AI algorithms for decision-making and learning

Even though there is a long way to go to achieve flawless operations, safety, cost efficiency ratio, we can already see humanoid robots transforming industrial applications and fields like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

The adoption of humanoid robotics is growing rapidly. The humanoid robot market is projected to grow from $3.9 billion in 2023 to $4.85 trillion by 2035. Asia Pacific leads with a 41.97% market share, driven by government support and innovation.

Here is all you need to know about the trends and tendencies in 2025.

Humanoid robots provide significant opportunities to revolutionize manufacturing and industrial settings by taking over tiring and repetitive tasks that however require precision, adaptability, and efficiency. Not only does this enhance the operations but also empowers human operators to focus on more complex responsibilities (addressing the infamous "alienation of labor" Marx had an issue with).

A good example of where humanoid robots already have a contribution is assembly line automation. For instance, Mercedes-Benz uses Apollo, a humanoid robot, to assist workers by handling repetitive tasks, which boosts productivity.

• In automotive manufacturing, these robots can switch between tasks like installing car doors and tightening chassis bolts, streamlining the operations.
• They can also adapt to different assembly tasks throughout the day, maximizing their utility across multiple programs.
• This fl exibility reduces the need for specialized equipment, saving costs and increasing efficiency.

In the inspection of industrial facilities, humanoid robots offer precise flaw detection and safe and effective exploration of hard-to-reach areas. By automating quality control, manufacturers can maintain high standards while reducing human error.

For example:

• Robots like ARMAR-6 can perform maintenance tasks.
• They can quickly switch between tasks with minimal downtime, maintaining production line flexibility.
• By taking on dangerous jobs, they reduce risks and improve safety standards.

Humanoid robots are on their way transforming healthcare by improving patient care and rehabilitation therapies, especially for elderly individuals. From promoting mental stimulation and assisting with routine activities to monitoring vital signs, these robots can deepen the scope and intensity of attention and support patients receive.

For example, Moxi handles non-patient-facing tasks, such as delivering specimens and collecting supplies, freeing up healthcare workers to focus on direct patient care. Others, like Robear, assist in lifting and transferring patients, reducing the physical strain on caregivers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, humanoid robots minimized human contact by taking temperatures and delivering supplies, ensuring safety for both patients and staff. Relevant to the pandemic context, humanoid robots can also work much longer hours, mitigating the burden of overworked staff.

Humanoid robots can also guide patients through exercises, ensuring proper technique and tracking progress. A good example is the E-BRAiN digital therapy system uses a humanoid robot to lead therapy sessions based on patient data.

Stroke survivors have reported improved outcomes when working with humanoid robots compared to standard computer based therapies.

Humanoid robots' ability to mimic human movements holds a promise of bringing a greater efficiency and precision to logistics and warehousing operations from inventory management and order fulfillment, to safe last-mile delivery.

For example, humanoid robots can autonomously scan products in warehouses and update inventory records in real-time, manage goods and orders, and perform time-consuming tasks. Equipped with RFID readers and barcode scanners, they ensure high accuracy in stock tracking. This eliminates the need for manual stock taking, saving time and labor costs.

Image Source: pexels

Who doesn't feel excited seeing a robot in real life?

Humanoid robots can lift customer service and hospitality to a whole new level by reshaping the quality of guidance and care that guests receive, from ensuring consistent order and hygiene of the rooms to reducing wait times in the check-in and check-out processes.

For instance, Connie, Hilton’s AI-powered concierge, uses natural language processing to provide tailored suggestions to guests. Similarly, Pepper recognizes emotions and responds accordingly, adding a personal touch to hotel services.

In retail, humanoid robots direct customers to product locations, process transactions, and even translate languages. In public spaces, they offer directions and details about services and facilities.

Last but not least, humanoid robots also serve as a dynamic basis for advancing research and development across various domains, including robotics, artificial intelligence, biomechanics and human-robot interaction.

Affordably priced, the Unitree G1 humanoid robot offers an accessible entry point into humanoid robotics.

With its compact design, advanced joint mobility, AI-driven learning, and optional dexterous hand, the G1 provides a versatile and adaptable platform for exploring new capabilities in robotics and connectivity.

Its integration of depth cameras and 3D LiDAR allows precise environmental interaction, while its affordability lowers the barrier for researchers, educators, and innovators to experiment and refine their ideas. The G1 thus represents a practical and powerful tool for driving forward the development of intelligent, collaborative robotic systems.

Applications:

• Research and Development: The G1 can serve as a versatile platform for exploring advanced robotics, AI algorithms, and human-robot interaction studies.
• Education: Its programmable nature makes it a valuable tool for teaching robotics, engineering and computer science concepts.
• Entertainment: The G1's humanoid appearance and movement capabilities make it suitable for performances, exhibitions and interactive installations.

General Laser is a partner and distributor of Unitree Robotics in Europe and can deliver G1 to your doorstep. Learn more here.

At General Laser, we develop custom solutions both in hardware and software to turn robotic platforms into precise scanning, mapping, and autonomously operating mechanisms that serve your project.

For example, we have developed a fully featured solution for autonomous navigation and inspection of facilities on board of a robot chassis.

By designing a customized payload equipped with sensors chosen to specifically cater to your application. We consider the type of data to be collected, methods of transmission, and ensure seamless integration of both hardware and software with the robotic platform.

Additionally, we help you determine whether a legged, wheeled, or tracked robot is best suited for your needs, guiding you through the entire process of payload development, testing, and integration to ensure the most efficient solution.

Every solution is fully customized for your specific requirements. Contact us to discover how we can streamline your workflow through robotic automation.

Adopting humanoid robots in industries presents several challenges. High development and maintenance costs as well as a lack of legal framework by policymakers often deter companies from investing in this technology. Advanced robots require expensive materials and components, such as dexterous hands, lidars, and efficient actuators. These costs, combined with the need for regular updates and repairs, can strain budgets.

Another challenge lies in human-robot interaction. Ensuring smooth collaboration between robots and workers requires precise control and coordination. Robots often struggle with limited perception of their surroundings, which can lead to inefficiencies or errors.

Despite these challenges, humanoid robots offer numerous benefits. They improve precision, reducing human error in many tasks. Their ability to perform repetitive and dangerous tasks enhances workplace safety and minimizes injuries.

In industries like manufacturing, robots can switch between tasks seamlessly, increasing productivity. They operate continuously without fatigue, allowing human workers to focus on complex and creative responsibilities. This improves job satisfaction and overall efficiency.

Humanoid robots also contribute to cost savings. By automating labor-intensive processes, they can reduce labor expenses by up to 75%.

In conclusion, humanoid robots are on their way to reshaping industries. Their ability to perform inspections in hazardous environments is an investment in worker safety, while their adaptability to tiring and routine tasks can free up human operators to focus on meaningful and fulfilling responsibilities, without any impact on operational continuity.

Looking ahead, humanoid robots will transform industries further. They will leverage technologies like IoT and 5G for real-time responsiveness. You can expect them to play larger roles in education, retail, and manufacturing, driving innovation and improving lives, and General Laser will surely contribute to this process.

What industries benefit the most from humanoid robots?

Industries like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and hospitality gain the most from humanoid robots. These robots improve efficiency, enhance safety, and reduce costs by automating repetitive or hazardous tasks.

What makes humanoid robots different from traditional robots?

Humanoid robots mimic human movements and behaviors. Unlike traditional robots, they adapt to dynamic environments and perform tasks requiring dexterity, such as assisting patients or interacting with customers.

What challenges do companies face when adopting humanoid robots?

High costs, energy demands, and legislative concerns pose challenges. Companies also face difficulties in ensuring smooth human-robot collaboration and addressing privacy or job displacement issues.

What are the key benefits of using humanoid robots?

Humanoid robots improve accuracy, reduce human error, and enhance safety. They handle repetitive tasks, allowing workers to focus on creative responsibilities. They also lower costs and improve productivity across industries.

What advancements can you expect in humanoid robots?

Future humanoid robots will integrate IoT and 5G technologies for real-time responsiveness. We can expect them to play larger roles in education, retail, and advanced healthcare applications.

Can the robots perform complicated tasks out of the box?

In most cases, adjusting a robotic platform to cater to your specific application would require sensor integration and secondary development - the tasks that General Laser can support you with.