UBTech Robotics is anticipating a widespread adoption of its humanoid robots in factory settings over the next three years, as revealed by a senior executive at the Chinese artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics company. Jiao Jichao, the company’s Vice President and Executive Dean of the research institute, disclosed plans to introduce humanoid robots in small quantities to industries, particularly in automobile factories, by the end of the current year. The company envisions a progression where these robots will initially be utilized for handling and sorting tasks, with a subsequent shift towards assembly tasks and on-site operations from next year through 2027. Apart from the automotive industry, UBTech intends to deploy humanoid robots in the 3C sectors – computer, communication, and consumer electronics – as well as in logistics operations.
During this phase of implementation, the company’s primary goal is to transition towards larger-scale commercial mass production. This involves not only an increase in quantity but also enhancements in quality, cost efficiency, and operational effectiveness. Looking ahead to 2033, UBTech anticipates its humanoid robots to undertake more intricate assembly work, including tasks like interior assembly and wiring harnesses, along with assembling smaller and more delicate products like smartphones and smartwatches within the 3C industries. These plans were discussed as UBTech formalized a collaboration agreement with Audi FAW and the Beijing Embodied Intelligence Robotics Innovation Center during the ongoing 2024 World Robot Conference in Beijing. The partnership aims to jointly develop intelligent solutions for humanoid robots, facilitating their integration into automotive production lines for tasks such as intelligent material handling, quality inspection, and process material operations.
The recent guidelines outlined by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China highlight a goal to establish a preliminary innovation system for humanoid robots by 2025. By 2027, the country aspires to have a robust industrial and supply chain system, with related products deeply intertwined with the actual economy. Xu Xiaolan, a former Vice Minister of Industry and Information Technology and a member of the Standing Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, emphasized the burgeoning advancements in new technologies like humanoid robots and general artificial intelligence. She noted that these innovations are on the cusp of becoming pivotal forces in global technological evolution, shaping future industries, and heralding new avenues for economic development.
Xu Xiaolan predicts that humanoid robots are poised to become a disruptive product akin to the impact of computers, smartphones, and new energy vehicles. The envisioned progression towards widespread adoption and integration of humanoid robots in industrial settings presents a promising outlook for technological innovation and economic growth.
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