Humanoid robots have come a long way in a short time. They’re learning how to walk, carry things, help with chores, and work alongside people in stores and warehouses. They might even show up in homes in the next couple of years.
Here’s a closer look at the companies building these machines and what their robots are doing—or getting ready to do.
Tesla
Out of all the humanoids in development out there, Optimus is one of the most talked-about. It can walk, lift, and balance, using the same AI systems Tesla crafted for its cars. Elon Musk wants to start production in 2025, depending on material supplies. Tesla plans to use the robot in factories first. If it works well, they may bring it into homes later to do chores like cleaning or laundry. It’s still in progress, but they’re aiming for large-scale use by 2029.
Figure AI
Figure AI is building robots that can step directly into active job sites. Its latest model, Figure 02, walks and moves objects in testing environments. Their approach keeps things simple: develop a robot that handles basic functions in warehouses or factories, then improve its performance gradually through use and feedback.
Agility Robotics
One robot made for warehouse work is already on the job, carrying packages and moving through tight spaces. Digit, developed by Agility Robotics, is currently working at a GXO facility, and the company plans to expand production. Its focus is on relieving people from repetitive, tiring work.
Boston Dynamics
Famous for dramatic robotics demos and viral videos, Boston Dynamics has garnered a reputation on machines that are balanced and agile. The company uses the knowledge it obtains to improve more practical robots, with long-term goals set on machines that can act as naturally as people.
1X Technologies
NEO is a humanoid that came out of 1X Technologies’ mission to build robots that fit into everyday life, not just factory floors. The company manufactured this robot to learn by observing people instead of relying on lab-based training. Backed by OpenAI, 1X prioritized making NEO adaptable and safe to operate around humans.
Unitree
Robots don’t have to be expensive to be useful, and Unitree is proving that by building affordable humanoids that can walk, balance, and carry light items. After gaining attention with its four-legged robots, the manufacturer shifted toward humanoids for everyday environments. Its models are designated for small businesses, offices, and homes—places that need reliable help but can’t spend heavily on robotics.
Agibot
A team from Agibot set out to build a robot that could be used in industrial environments. The company focuses on machines that support repetitive tasks like lifting, sorting, and basic logistics. While details on deployments are limited, Agibot highlights motion control and steadiness as key features.
Apptronik
After teaming up with Mercedes-Benz, Apptronik is testing how Apollo can assist on busy automotive assembly lines. The partnership marks a major step toward putting humanoid robots into production work. Apollo comes with swappable four-hour batteries, a modular frame, and built-in sensors that stop movement when people get close.
X-Humanoid
A 13-mile half-marathon became the ultimate test for Tiangong Ultra, the robot developed by X-Humanoid. The company produced it to operate with balance and control across unpredictable terrain, and the run proved exactly that. Tiangong Ultra stayed upright the entire way while handling surface changes and outdoor conditions without losing pace.
EngineAI
After years of working on simulation and motion control systems, EngineAI is now moving toward applications in humanoid robotics. Though not disclosed publicly, the company’s work appears to gravitate toward real-time response and coordination in dynamic settings. Current development hints at an interest in full-body mobility, though specifics on hardware have not been officially released.
Fourier Intelligence
Stroke recovery programs brought GR-2 into the spotlight when therapists used it to support patients during walking exercises. This robot, created by Fourier Intelligence, adjusted its pace and balance based on each person’s needs.
Kepler Robotics
On a construction site, you need a robot that can keep its balance on rough ground and carry weight. While there is no concrete confirmation on humanoid models, Keppler Robotics is believed to be working on applications in sectors like construction and logistics. Its goal is to support workers who are doing heavy lifting all day. When fatigue sets in, a machine like this can step in without slowing things down.
Robot Era
Robot Era’s objective since its early days has been to develop robots for everyday service work. Its technology is being used across hotels, office buildings, and retail spaces. By prioritizing adaptability and smooth human-machine interaction, Robot Era has positioned itself as a leader in lightweight, service-based robotics.
Engineered Arts
Pilot programs across Europe and Asia are giving Ameca real-world experience in schools, museums, and elder care centers. Engineered Arts developed this machine to focus entirely on human interaction—it reads facial cues, responds to tone, and mirrors gestures during conversation.
Sanctuary AI
Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix stands apart from most humanoid robots due to its thinking and decision-making. Rather than following step-by-step instructions, it evaluates its environment, sets goals, and chooses how to act. It can perform simple tasks like stocking shelves, but the way it adapts on its own makes it different.