Unitree Robotics is making waves with its new G1 humanoid robot, priced at just $16,000, as reported by NewAtlas. The company, known for its quadruped robots, has shifted its focus to bipedal machines – and it’s paying off.
The G1 impresses with its balance of affordability and performance. Its advanced 3D LiDAR, RealSense depth camera, and noise-canceling microphone array allow it to navigate complex environments with ease. 23 degrees of freedom give it lifelike articulation, while a 9,000-mAh battery provides two hours of operation, according to BGR.
“We’ve made key improvements to the G1 since its debut earlier this year,” says Unitree CEO Wang Xingxing. “Our engineers have tweaked both its design and performance, resulting in a sleeker, more efficient robot that’s ready for mass production.”
The G1’s agility is remarkable. It can leap, twist, hop, dance, climb stairs, and jog at 4.5 mph. It maintains balance despite obstacles and aggressive pushing. Cables are neatly tucked away, enhancing its streamlined appearance.
At $16,000, the G1 is significantly more affordable than Unitree’s earlier $90,000 humanoid prototypes. This attractive price point, combined with its impressive capabilities, makes the G1 a strong contender in various industries, including personal assistance.
Potential applications are vast. The G1 could help with household chores, or assist in emergencies by calling 911 and performing CPR. As mass-produced humanoids become a reality, they may revolutionize healthcare, education, and entertainment.
Unitree hasn’t confirmed that G1 production has begun, but the robot is clearly edging closer to mainstream availability. In a rapidly evolving field with dropping prices, the G1 is a sign of the bright future ahead for general-purpose humanoid robots.
Background on Unitree Robotics and the G1 Robot
Unitree Robotics, a company that initially focused on four-legged robots like the Go2 and B2, has now shifted its attention to bipedal humanoid robots. This strategic move is paying off with the introduction of the G1 humanoid robot, which boasts an impressive balance of affordability and advanced capabilities.
The G1 was released following competition from industry giants like Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and Sanctuary AI. However, Unitree’s offering stands out with its $16,000 price tag, significantly lower than the company’s earlier humanoid prototypes, which carried a hefty $90,000 price point.
As Dailygalaxy points out, since its debut earlier this year, the G1 has undergone key improvements to prepare it for mass production. Unitree’s engineers have tweaked both the design and performance of the robot, resulting in a sleeker, more efficient machine that is ready to take on the market.
Image credit: Unitree Robotics
