Global robotics industry sees surge in humanoid shipments and AI innovation

The global robotics industry is experiencing rapid technological advancement and commercial expansion, highlighted by major developments at the 2026 World Robot Conference and various regional automation expos.

In China, the humanoid robot market is surging, with Counterpoint Research reporting that global shipments exceeded 22,000 units in the first half of 2026, a nearly 300% year-on-year increase. Chinese manufacturers, including Agibot, Unitree, Galbot, UBTECH, and Leju Robotics, dominate the sector, accounting for 86% of total shipments. Unitree's founder predicted that humanoid robots could enter the mass market within a decade once task generalization and efficiency improve. Additionally, JD.com announced a strategic robotics plan involving a 10-billion-yuan investment by 2028 to support brand sales and global after-sales service.

In Taiwan, companies are focusing on specialized automation. Peripherals manufacturer Perkon is testing service robots in Japan and South Korea for mass production by 2027. Semiconductor material distributor Chongyue is collaborating with Japan's SCIVAX to develop advanced optical tactile and 3D spatial sensors for human-robot collaboration. Meanwhile, the Taiwan Smart Automation and Robotics Show in Taipei showcased innovations such as AI bionic hands, quadruped robots for disaster relief, and service robots designed to mitigate labor shortages in the catering and medical sectors.