Hey Lykkers! Have you ever imagined a day when a robot with a human face helps us cook dinner, delivers packages, or even chats with us like a friend?
That day might be closer than we think. Around the world, scientists and tech companies are racing to bring humanoid robots into our everyday lives. So where do we stand now? What can these robots really do? And when will they be part of our homes, workplaces, and communities?
Let’s take a global tour and find out together.
From Asia to North America and Europe, tech giants are investing heavily in humanoid robots. In China, for example, visitors recently watched a robot named “Tiangong” walk like a human at a major tech exhibition in Beijing. In Shenzhen, a robot called “Kuafu” impressed everyone with its agility and coordination. Built by Leju Robotics, it can walk, jump, and respond to people in real-time—all while being connected through an open-source system for flexible use in classrooms and commercial spaces.
Ameca conversation using GPT 3 - Will robots take over the world?
Video by Engineered Arts
Meanwhile, in the United States, Tesla’s humanoid robot “Optimus” can walk, turn naturally, and even pass a raw egg from hand to hand without breaking it. Elon Musk has announced plans to deploy thousands of these robots in 2025, with mass production expected in 2026. And in Japan, companies like Honda and SoftBank have also been exploring advanced robotics for years.
Globally, more than 160 companies are working on humanoid robots, and over 60 of them are based in China—making up about 37% of the total. The United States and Japan follow closely, holding 19% and 11% respectively.
So what roles are these robots already playing? Today, we’re seeing them used in education, manufacturing, customer service, and even healthcare. Their human-like structure makes it easier for them to work in places designed for people—factories, shopping malls, hospitals, and homes.
In retail, they can greet and assist customers. In factories, they can work on tasks that are difficult to automate with traditional machines. And at home, they're starting to help with simple chores and companionship, especially for the elderly. Some robots are even designed to monitor health and offer emotional support, making them a valuable part of aging societies.
According to the International Federation of Robotics, the global market for humanoid robots is growing at an impressive annual rate of 71%. In China alone, it’s expected to reach nearly 870 billion RMB (about $120 billion USD) by 2030.
Of course, we’re not there yet. Right now, most humanoid robots are still in experimental or small-scale commercial use. Costs are high—some models sell for over $70,000 USD—and there are still technical hurdles. Each robot combines complex fields like mechanics, electronics, AI, and sensors. Most current designs are customized, and there aren’t enough standardized parts to make production cheaper.
Another challenge is ensuring safety and reliability, especially if robots are to work closely with people in daily environments. We’ll need more time to test, improve, and gain public trust.
Experts agree that 2025 to 2030 will be the key window for turning humanoid robots from lab projects into real-world tools. Companies are pushing forward, but they also need time, funding, and supportive regulations. In China, there’s a national push to make humanoid robots part of future industries. In the U.S. and Europe, private tech firms are leading the charge.
And let’s not forget the role of people—us. The more we understand and accept these robots, the faster they can integrate into society. Yao Qiyuan, a robotics entrepreneur, suggests that expanding trial applications and setting clear global standards will be crucial to speeding up progress.
As we move into a new era, humanoid robots might one day become part of our everyday surroundings—helping at hospitals, working in factories, assisting in classrooms, and maybe even becoming companions at home. The world is preparing for this shift, step by step.
So, Lykkers, what do you think? Would you feel excited—or a little nervous—about having a robot roommate or coworker? Would you trust a humanoid robot to care for your grandparents or teach your kids?
Let’s talk about it! Drop your thoughts below—we’d love to hear how you imagine living in a world with human-like robots. The future is coming, and we’re all part of building it.