The robotics world was set abuzz when China unveiled its latest achievement at the 2025 Spring Festival Gala. Sixteen humanoid robots from Unitree, known as the H1, performed a traditional Yang Ko dance alongside human performers. These robots, standing at 1.8 metres tall and weighing 47 kilograms, showcased remarkable stability and precision, flipping handkerchiefs and moving in perfect sync.
What makes this feat extraordinary is the robots’ ability to handle complex movements and maintain balance—a challenge for most humanoids. Unitree’s H1 robots, priced at approximately £70,000 (90,000 USD), were trained using AI and laser SLAM technology, allowing them to adapt to stage nuances and rapid dance formations. This performance has drawn comparisons to Tesla’s Optimus, which has struggled with basic tasks like walking and picking up objects.
Figure AI Splits from OpenAI: A Bold Move in Robotics
While China’s robotics achievements are making headlines, Figure AI is shaking up the industry with its decision to part ways with OpenAI. Originally backed by OpenAI, Figure AI has chosen to develop its own in-house AI software for its humanoid robots. Brett Adcock, CEO of Figure AI, emphasised the importance of creating an end-to-end system for real-time robotic operations.
This move comes as Figure AI prepares to deploy its robots in commercial settings, with BMW already testing them in a South Carolina factory. The company, valued at $2.6 billion, is also teasing a groundbreaking reveal in the next 30 days, hinting at a major leap in humanoid robotics.
Tesla’s Optimus vs. Clone Robotics: The Battle for the Best Robot Han
Elon Musk recently praised Tesla’s Optimus robot hand, calling it “more complex than a Fabergé egg.” However, Clone Robotics has thrown down the gauntlet, claiming its muscle-based hand is lighter, stronger, and cheaper to produce. Unlike Tesla’s motor-driven design, Clone Robotics uses artificial muscles, which they argue offer superior performance and durability.
This rivalry highlights the ongoing race to perfect robotic appendages, a critical component for humanoids to perform tasks with human-like dexterity. As both companies push the boundaries, the competition is driving rapid advancements in robotic hardware.
NVIDIA and Carnegie Mellon Train Robots to Move Like Athletes
NVIDIA and Carnegie Mellon University are taking a unique approach to robotics training with their ASAP framework. By analysing videos of athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James, they’re teaching robots to mimic agile, dynamic movements. The ASAP framework bridges the gap between simulation and real-world physics, using reinforcement learning to refine robotic actions.
This innovative method addresses the “real-to-sim-to-real” challenge, where robots often struggle to replicate simulated performance in physical environments. By incorporating real-world data, NVIDIA aims to create more lifelike and expressive humanoids, though the hardware demands remain a significant hurdle.
The Global Race for AI-Powered Humanoids
The robotics and AI landscape is heating up, with China, the US, and other players vying for dominance. Companies like Unitree, Figure AI, Tesla, and NVIDIA are pushing the boundaries of what humanoids can achieve, from dancing and factory work to athletic feats.
As the competition intensifies, the focus is shifting toward commercial applications, where businesses are willing to invest in advanced robotics. However, the ultimate goal remains creating humanoids capable of handling everyday tasks in homes—a challenge that requires overcoming significant technical and financial barriers.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Robotics and AI?
The rapid advancements in robotics and AI are reshaping industries and redefining what’s possible. From China’s dancing robots to Figure AI’s bold independence, Tesla’s intricate designs, and NVIDIA’s athlete-inspired training, the future of humanoids is brighter than ever.
As these technologies evolve, we can expect more groundbreaking reveals, from Figure AI’s upcoming project to Tesla’s next Optimus update. The race for the most advanced AI-powered humanoid is far from over, and the world is watching closely.