New features and affordable pricing redefine humanoid robotics

Unitree's latest innovation, the G1 humanoid robot, has made headlines with its new features and capabilities, although it comes with some trade-offs. 

Unitree has recently released new footage showcasing its G1 robot performing a range of actions, including jumping, spinning, climbing stairs, and navigating various obstacles, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The company states that this video represents the G1's transition to the mass production model. Here’s what we know about this humanoid robot and its position in the competitive landscape. 

At 4 feet, 4 inches tall, the Unitree G1 is notably shorter than many humanoid robots, and it weighs just 80 pounds, in contrast to competitors like Boston Dynamics' Atlas, Tesla’s Optimus, and Figure 02, which all exceed 100 pounds. The smaller size and lighter weight of the G1 may contribute to lower manufacturing and shipping costs, potentially giving Unitree an edge in a crowded humanoid robotics market.

The company, known for its more affordable four-legged robots such as the Go2, seems to be applying a similar cost-effective approach to its humanoid models. Unitree's G1 walks at a speed of 4.4 mph, which is somewhat underwhelming compared to the company's previous humanoid robot, the H1, which set a world record by reaching speeds of around 7.4 mph. The G1 can fold down to under three feet in height, likely for easier shipping or storage. It has the capability to learn new tasks through imitation and simulation.

Priced starting at $16,000, the G1 is positioned as a more affordable choice for those interested in humanoid robots. In contrast, Tesla's Optimus has no specific price yet, but Elon Musk has suggested it will be "less than half the price of a car." Boston Dynamics has not disclosed the price for its humanoid robot Atlas, though its four-legged robot Spot starts at approximately $75,000.