The G1 Humanoid Agent, a noteworthy advancement in the realm of robotics, was unveiled by rising star Unitree Robotics. Along with its amazing qualities, this new robot has a price tag that has the potential to completely change the industry.
Unitree, formerly recognized for their cutting-edge robotic canines, such as the Go2 and B2, has turned its attention to humanoids. The H1, their first release, made a splash last year when it debuted, displaying amazing walking and even backflipping skills. Its accessibility was however constrained by its exorbitant cost (US$90,000) and lengthy wait times.
These restrictions are tackled head-on by the G1. It makes it possible for researchers, companies, and even private citizens to investigate the possibilities of humanoid robots, with a starting price of far less than sixteen thousand dollars.
When compared to the H1, the G1 offers a more comprehensive bundle. It has a head that resembles a helmet and is fitted with depth camera and 3D LiDAR sensors for enhanced perception. The G1 even has two nimble robotic hands for manipulation tasks and three-fingered grippers for daily use, unlike its faceless predecessor.
Durability is another key feature. The launch video demonstrates the G1’s ability to recover from simulated attacks, hinting at its potential for real-world applications. Unitree plans to further enhance its capabilities through reinforcement learning and imitation techniques, allowing the G1 to continuously learn and improve its skillset.
Powering this versatile robot are eight high-performance cores, ensuring smooth operation. Connectivity is provided through Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. The G1’s joints offer a wide range of motion (23-43 degrees) and impressive torque (up to 120 Nm), allowing for both delicate tasks and powerful movements. With a running speed of 4.47 mph and a 2-hour battery life, the G1 is both mobile and efficient.
For convenient transport, the G1 folds into a surprisingly compact form (690 x 450 x 300 mm). Unitree offers two variants: a standard G1 and an enhanced educational model. While some features are still under development, the G1 marks a significant milestone in affordable humanoid robotics. Its combination of capabilities and price tag opens exciting possibilities for research, education, and potentially even home use. The future of human-robot interaction seems a lot closer thanks to Unitree’s innovative G1.
