BOSTON (AP) — Tariffs weren’t on the agenda of this week’s Robotics Summit, where thousands of tech industry workers mingled with humanoid and other robot varieties and talked about how to build and sell a new generation of increasingly autonomous machines.
Not on the official agenda, at least.
“Jump up to the microphones,” said keynote speaker Aaron Saunders, chief technology officer of Boston Dynamics, inviting a standing-room-only crowd to ask him questions. “And I’m the CTO, so don’t ask me about tariffs.”
The crowd laughed and complied. But as they streamed onto the show floor at Boston’s convention center, greeted by a remote-controlled humanoid made by Chinese company Unitree, it was hard to ignore the shadow of President Donald Trump’s far-reaching global tariffs and retaliatory measures from Trump’s biggest target, China.
Tariffs are the “No. 1 topic that we’re discussing in the hallways and at the water cooler with people that I’ve known for a long time,” said event organizer Steve Crowe, chair of the annual Robotics Summit & Expo. “I think it’s definitely top of mind, because there’s so much uncertainty about what is going to come.”
That concern is rooted in a robot’s complex anatomy of motors and actuators to move their limbs, computers to power their artificial intelligence, and sensing devices to help them react to their surroundings. Sensors, semiconductors, batteries and rare earth magnets are among the array of components most sensitive to global trade disputes.
Tesla CEO and billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk warned investors last week that China’s countermeasures restricting shipments of rare earth magnets will delay Tesla’s development of its Optimus humanoid robots.
At the summit on Wednesday and Thursday, some humanoid makers were looking at a potential bright side to the geopolitical shifts as American businesses look harder for domestic supplies of parts and the development of U.S.-based robots that can automate factories and warehouses.
“It’s added some inconveniences to our own supply chain. But it’s also opened up opportunities,” said Pras Velagapudi, chief technology officer at Oregon-based Agility Robotics, in an interview. The company is starting to deploy its humanoid robot, called Digit, at a U.S. plant run by German manufacturer Schaeffler, a maker of ball bearings and other components key to the auto industry.
Al Makke, a director of engineering for Schaeffler’s chassis systems, said tariffs could push many companies toward onshoring production of a variety of items in the U.S.
“And if that does happen, then local companies have to deal with high labor costs and a shortage of labor and so automation gets pushed further,” Makke said. “And one of those faces of automation is humanoids.”
Most of the big industrial robots employed in the U.S. are used to help make cars, and are imported from countries such as Japan, Germany or South Korea.
Automakers in the U.S. installed 9.6% more robots in their plants than a year before, according to new data from the International Federation of Robotics, a trade group.
For now, humanoids are still a niche but one that invites intense curiosity, in part thanks to popular science fiction. Saunders, of Hyundai-owned Boston Dynamics, presented an update Wednesday on the development of its Atlas humanoid robot but didn’t bring a physical prototype, instead showing off a more familiar pack of its four-legged Spot robots contained in a pen on the show floor.
The sole humanoid at the conference was Unitree’s G1. Marketed for $16,000 and remote-controlled by an employee standing nearby, the robot fluidly shook hands, waved back at people and walked around the show floor, but it won’t be moving totes or working in a factory anytime soon.
Its main customers outside China are academic researchers and some social media influencers, and Trump’s current tariffs totaling 145% on China would raise its cost to American buyers to roughly $40,000, said Tony Yang, a Unitree vice president of business development who manages its North American sales. Nevertheless, Unitree’s strategy to rapidly develop its hardware and software is a long-term one.
“It’s still a very narrow market, but I think there’s still a huge potential market on the industry side, like for manufacturing and factory and even home use,” Yang said.
At a full pickleball court on the show floor, some conference attendees took a break to grab a racket and swing at balls tossed by a wheeled robot. Asked to describe what’s inside the Tennibot robot, its maker also had tariffs on the mind.
“Injection molded parts, rivets, screws, nuts, wheels, motors, batteries,” said Haitham Eletrabi, co-founder and CEO of Tennibot, based in Auburn, Alabama. “The supply chain gets very complex. We get parts from all over the world. Tariffs are adding a lot of uncertainty.”
It’s not just the U.S.-China trade rivalry that was weighing on some attendees. Francesca Torsiello, of the recruitment firm Adapt Talent, said she’s also hearing more wariness from Canadian robotics and engineering candidates about taking jobs in the U.S. amid a tense political environment.
“In the past, people in Canada found it attractive to come and work for U.S. companies; right now they’re being very hesitant,” Torsiello said.
————-
AP video journalist Rodrique Ngowi contributed to this report.
date: 2025-05-02 00:04:00
US Robot Makers Aim to Overtake China in Humanoid Robotics: Will Tariffs Hinder Their Progress?
Table of Contents
- US Robot Makers Aim to Overtake China in Humanoid Robotics: Will Tariffs Hinder Their Progress?
- The US Humanoid Robot Advantage: Innovation and Specialization
- Key Players in the US Humanoid Robot landscape
- The Looming Threat of Tariffs on Key Components
- Navigating the Tariff Landscape: Strategies for US Robot Makers
- The Role of Government Policy in Supporting US Robotics
- Beyond Manufacturing: Software and AI as Key Differentiators
- Case Study: Agility Robotics and the Future of logistics
- The Ethical Considerations of Widespread Humanoid Robot Adoption
- First-Hand Experience: Witnessing the Evolution of Humanoid Robots
- Looking Ahead: The Future of US Humanoid Robotics
Teh race to create the world’s most advanced and functional humanoid robot is heating up, and the United States is persistent to take the lead. While China has made notable strides in robotics and automation, a growing number of American companies are stepping up their game, investing heavily in research, development, and manufacturing. The ambition is clear: to not just compete, but to dominate the burgeoning humanoid robot market.
The US Humanoid Robot Advantage: Innovation and Specialization
Several factors contribute to the US’s potential advantage in this technological race. One key element is a strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.The US boasts a vibrant ecosystem of startups, research institutions, and established tech giants, all pushing the boundaries of robotics technology.
- Advanced AI Capabilities: US firms frequently enough lead in the development of artificial intelligence, a critical component for creating smart and adaptable humanoid robots.
- specialized Expertise: While China might focus on mass production, US robotics companies often specialize in niche areas like advanced materials, precision engineering, and refined software.
- Strong University research Programs: Leading US universities are at the forefront of robotics research, training the next generation of engineers and scientists.
- Venture Capital Investment: The US attracts significant venture capital investment, providing crucial funding for robotic startups.
Key Players in the US Humanoid Robot landscape
Several companies are driving the US challenge in humanoid robotics. these companies are not just building robots; they’re building the future.
- Figure AI:* This company is generating significant buzz with its ambitious plans to create general-purpose humanoid robots for various industries.
- Agility Robotics: Known for its bipedal robot Digit, Agility Robotics focuses on logistics and warehouse automation. Digit is designed to work alongside humans in existing facilities.
- Boston Dynamics: acquired by Hyundai, Boston Dynamics continues to push the boundaries of robot mobility and dexterity, albeit their commercial focus has shifted.While they may not be *purely* US-based anymore, their technology stems from US innovation.
- Apptronik: Developing general-purpose humanoid robots, focusing on affordability and usability in various environments.
The Looming Threat of Tariffs on Key Components
While the US robotics industry demonstrates significant potential, it faces challenges, particularly concerning tariffs on imported components. Many essential parts for robots, such as sensors, actuators, and electronics, are sourced from overseas, including China. Increased tariffs could significantly increase the cost of manufacturing humanoid robots in the US, possibly hindering their ability to compete effectively with Chinese manufacturers.
Tariffs: A Double-Edged Sword for the US Robotics Industry
The impact of tariffs on the US humanoid robot industry is complex and multifaceted.While tariffs might aim to protect domestic industries and encourage local manufacturing, they can also have unintended consequences.
- Increased Manufacturing Costs: Tariffs directly increase the cost of imported components, forcing US robot makers to either absorb these costs or pass them on to consumers.
- Reduced Competitiveness: Higher prices for US-made robots could make them less competitive in the global market,especially against cheaper alternatives from China.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Tariffs can disrupt existing supply chains, forcing companies to find alternative suppliers, which can be time-consuming and costly.
- Slower Innovation: The higher cost of components can reduce the capital available for research and development, potentially slowing down innovation.
Despite the challenges posed by tariffs, US robotics companies can adopt several strategies to mitigate their impact and maintain a competitive edge.
- Diversifying Supply Chains: Reducing reliance on a single source for key components by diversifying supply chains across multiple countries.
- Investing in Domestic Manufacturing: Increasing investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities to produce more components locally.
- Focusing on High-Value Components: concentrating on developing and manufacturing high-value components that offer a significant technological advantage.
- Lobbying for Tariff Relief: Advocating for tariff relief or exemptions for specific components essential for robotics manufacturing.
- Strategic Partnerships: Forming strategic partnerships with international suppliers to gain access to components at competitive prices.
The Role of Government Policy in Supporting US Robotics
Government policy plays a crucial role in fostering a thriving robotics industry.Strategic investments in research and development, tax incentives for domestic manufacturing, and policies that promote innovation can all help the US maintain its competitive edge.
- Funding for Research and Development: Increased government funding for robotics research and development can accelerate innovation and create new opportunities for US companies.
- Tax Incentives for Domestic Manufacturing: Offering tax incentives to companies that manufacture robots and components in the US can encourage domestic production and create jobs.
- Streamlined Regulations: Streamlining regulations related to robot deployment and operation can reduce barriers to entry and encourage adoption.
- Workforce Development Programs: Investing in workforce development programs to train workers in robotics-related skills can ensure a skilled workforce to support the industry.
Beyond Manufacturing: Software and AI as Key Differentiators
while hardware is essential,the software and AI that power humanoid robots are equally critically important. The US has a strong advantage in these areas, with leading companies developing sophisticated algorithms for perception, planning, and control.
Focusing on these areas can help US robot makers differentiate themselves from competitors and create robots that are not only physically capable but also intelligent and adaptable.
- AI-Powered Perception: Developing advanced perception systems that allow robots to understand their surroundings and interact with objects in a natural way.
- Reinforcement Learning: Using reinforcement learning to train robots to perform complex tasks in dynamic and unpredictable environments.
- Human-Robot Interaction: Creating intuitive interfaces that allow humans to easily interact with and program robots.
- Cloud Robotics: Leveraging cloud computing to provide robots with access to vast amounts of data and computing power, enabling them to learn and adapt more quickly.
Case Study: Agility Robotics and the Future of logistics
Agility Robotics stands out as a prime example of a US company successfully navigating the challenges of the humanoid robot market. Their robot, Digit, is designed specifically for logistics and warehouse automation, a sector ripe for disruption.Agility focusing on a very specific use case and developing a robot to solve very specific need is what places them in the lead.
Key Takeaways from Agility Robotics’ Success:
- focus on a specific Niche: Targeting logistics allows for optimized design.
- Practical, Real-world Applications: Digit solves immediate labor-shortage problems.
- Designed for Human Workspaces: Minimizes infrastructure changes needed for adoption.
| Company | Focus Area | key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| agility Robotics | Logistics | Adaptability to existing Warehouses |
| Figure AI | General Purpose | Ambitious Technological Breakthroughs |
| Apptronik | General Purpose | Practicality and Cost-Effectiveness |
The Ethical Considerations of Widespread Humanoid Robot Adoption
As humanoid robots become more prevalent,it’s crucial to address the ethical considerations associated with their use.this includes issues such as job displacement, data privacy, and the potential for misuse.
- Job Displacement: Addressing the potential for job displacement by investing in retraining programs and creating new opportunities in the robotics industry.
- Data Privacy: Ensuring that robots collect and use data responsibly and ethically, protecting individuals’ privacy.
- Bias in Algorithms: Mitigating bias in AI algorithms to ensure that robots treat all individuals fairly and equitably.
- Autonomous Decision-Making: Establishing clear guidelines for autonomous decision-making by robots, ensuring that they are accountable for their actions.
First-Hand Experience: Witnessing the Evolution of Humanoid Robots
Attending robotics conferences and trade shows provides a firsthand glimpse into the rapidly evolving world of humanoid robots. Witnessing the advancements in robot mobility, dexterity, and intelligence is truly inspiring.
Speaking to engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs in the field reveals their passion and dedication to creating robots that can improve people’s lives. It’s clear that the future of robotics is bright, and the US is poised to play a leading role.
Looking Ahead: The Future of US Humanoid Robotics
The US robotics industry has the potential to lead the world in the development and deployment of humanoid robots. By focusing on innovation, addressing the challenges posed by tariffs, and fostering a supportive policy environment, the US can solidify its position as a global leader in this exciting field.
- Continued Innovation: Investing in research and development to drive further innovation in robotics hardware, software, and AI.
- Strategic Partnerships: Forming strategic partnerships with international companies to access new markets and technologies.
- Addressing ethical Concerns: proactively addressing the ethical concerns associated with humanoid robots to ensure responsible development and deployment.
- Collaboration: Building collaborations between industry, academia, and government to accelerate innovation and drive adoption.
The post US robot makers hope to beat China in humanoid race. Tariffs could affect their ambitions appeared first on Archynewsy.