Who's laughing now? China’s humanoid robots go from viral stumbles to kung fu flips in one year

China's manufacturing advantage, combined with government support, has also enabled Chinese robotics producers to manufacture their products at much lower prices than competitors, Todorova said. Unitree, for example, advertises a base price of $13,500 for its G1 humanoid robot.

The robot's abilities displayed at the event were far more advanced than those shown just one year prior. Analysts say that while technology has improved, capability, not stunts, will decide long-term economic impact.... Chinese humanoid robots are having a moment in the spotlight after a standout performance at the country's annual Spring Festival Gala earlier this week, with videos from the event circulating widely online.

The showing marked a sharp contrast from the 2025 Gala, which had featured less advanced versions of the robots twirling handkerchiefs in a wobbly folk dance. Around that time, public demonstrations of the humanoids often drew skepticism, such as a robot marathon in April that made headlines for stumbles, crashes and breakdowns.

China's manufacturing advantage, combined with government support, has also enabled Chinese robotics producers to manufacture their products at much lower prices than competitors, Todorova said. Unitree, for example, advertises a base price of $13,500 for its G1 humanoid robot.

Meanwhile, Tesla's Optimus, a humanoid leader in the U.S., is expected to keep prices higher in the near term. CEO Elon Musk said during an earnings call in Jan. 2025 that the robot's production cost could fall below US$20,000 if annual output reaches 1 million units, though final pricing would depend on market demand.