In 2025, the development of humanoid robots has become one of the most dynamic directions in the global tech industry. China, the United States, South Korea, and the United Kingdom are investing billions in creating machines capable of working alongside humans. But who is shaping the market — and what challenges lie ahead for the leaders of this race?

Unitree Robotics: Prioritizing Accessibility and Mass Production

Chinese company Unitree Robotics unveiled its humanoid robot G1 at the Hannover Messe 2025. Standing at just 130 cm tall and priced at $16,000, the G1 is one of the most affordable humanoid robots on the market.

Its compact design and impressive movement capabilities made the G1 a true sensation at exhibitions — videos of the robot dancing went viral. However, G1 currently requires manual programming for autonomous functionality, which limits its practical use. The primary audience for the product includes research institutions and tech companies.

Tesla Optimus: The Dream of a Million Robots

Elon Musk has once again captured the world’s attention with ambitious plans. Tesla is working on its humanoid robot Optimus, and Musk claims the company plans to release several thousand units in 2025.

However, this vision is facing obstacles. Due to restrictions on rare earth material exports from China, there are supply chain issues affecting key components like actuators. According to Reuters, these restrictions could significantly delay the production timeline.

Kinisi Robotics: Practicality Over Perfect Form

British company Kinisi Robotics offers a different approach to humanoid robotics. Their KR1 robot, designed for warehouse and factory use, moves on wheels instead of legs — reducing manufacturing costs and increasing reliability.

The company’s goal is to create a device that can be operated without deep knowledge of robotics. According to founder Bren Pierce, the robot can learn new tasks after just a few dozen demonstrations. KR1 is aimed at businesses seeking efficient automation with minimal integration effort.

Hyundai and Boston Dynamics: Betting on Industrial Transformation

South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group is making major investments in integrating robots into its manufacturing operations. In collaboration with Boston Dynamics, the company is deploying four-legged robots like Spot and preparing to scale up humanoid systems.

The goal is to enhance flexibility and production efficiency by embedding mobile robots into warehouse and factory workflows.

BMW and Figure AI: Technology Trials in Manufacturing

German automaker BMW Group, in partnership with Figure AI, is testing humanoid Figure 02 robots at its Spartanburg plant in the U.S. These robots assist with transporting parts and performing simple assembly tasks, paving the way for broader future implementation.

The trials have demonstrated that robots can successfully operate in dynamic production environments, where autonomy and safe human interaction are essential.

Are Humanoid Robots Ready to Change the World?

Despite clear progress, humanoid robotics is still in the early stages of development. Autonomy, safe human interaction, and the ability to function in unpredictable environments remain challenges that engineers will face for years to come.

However, one thing is clear: humanoid robotics is gradually shifting from conceptual prototypes to practical production solutions. The countries and companies that first learn to reliably and affordably mass-produce humanoid robots will gain a significant strategic advantage in the coming tech era.