UBTECH Robotics has reached a major milestone in industrial automation. For the first time, dozens of humanoid robots are working together in a real-world factory setting. At Zeekr’s Smart Factory, these robots—powered by UBTECH’s BrainNet system—are successfully handling complex tasks.
This achievement is groundbreaking. It proves that humanoid robots can function as a coordinated workforce, not just in research labs, but in real industries. Unlike traditional factory robots that are stationary and limited to repetitive tasks, UBTECH’s Walker S1 robots are mobile, intelligent, and adaptable.
By working together, these robots are boosting productivity, improving efficiency, and reducing errors. This technology has the potential to transform not only manufacturing but also industries like logistics, healthcare, and retail.
Walker S1: A New Generation of Humanoid Robots
UBTECH’s Walker S1 robots are changing the game. Unlike traditional robots, these are fully mobile humanoidsequipped with advanced dexterity and intelligence. They can:
- Walk on two legs, allowing them to move freely in factory environments.
- Grasp objects with robotic hands, enabling them to handle delicate and complex tasks.
- Use AI-driven perception to recognize objects, plan movements, and make decisions.
Unlike fixed industrial robots, Walker S1 is designed to navigate dynamic environments and work alongside humans, making them far more versatile.
The Power of BrainNet: Collective Intelligence
What makes this development even more revolutionary is BrainNet—UBTECH’s proprietary AI-driven control framework. Instead of functioning as individual, isolated robots, Walker S1 robots are connected through a shared intelligence network.
BrainNet allows them to:
- Communicate and coordinate tasks in real-time.
- Share data and learn from each other, improving efficiency over time.
- Adapt to environmental changes, ensuring smooth operations.
- Work together as a team, optimizing factory workflows dynamically.
Beyond Pre-Programming: True AI-Driven Problem Solving
Unlike traditional robots that follow rigid pre-programmed instructions, Walker S1 robots think and adapt. They can:
- Solve problems on the fly, such as adjusting when obstacles appear.
- Optimize workflows dynamically, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently.
- Make decisions autonomously, reducing reliance on human supervision.
This marks a major shift from single-task industrial automation to multi-functional, intelligent humanoid workers. The future of robotics is no longer about just automation—it’s about adaptability, intelligence, and real-time collaboration.
What Are the Robots Doing at Zeekr?
At Zeekr’s Smart Factory, UBTECH’s Walker S1 robots are taking on a variety of tasks that are typically done by human workers or traditional industrial robots. However, unlike conventional automation, these humanoid robots can move freely, adapt to changes, and work together in real time.
1. Material Handling and Transportation:
Walker S1 robots are responsible for moving materials and parts between different stations on the production line. Unlike traditional conveyor systems or fixed robotic arms, these humanoid robots walk autonomously, adjusting their path as needed. This flexibility reduces bottlenecks and increases efficiency in the factory.
2. Sorting and Quality Inspection:
Maintaining product quality is crucial in any manufacturing setting. Walker S1 robots use AI-powered vision systems to inspect parts and identify defects. They can:
- Recognize faulty components using advanced sensors.
- Sort materials based on quality standards without human supervision.
- Ensure only high-quality parts move forward in the assembly process.
3. Collaborative Assembly on the Production Line:
Walker S1 robots are not just working alone—they are collaborating on assembly tasks. By communicating through BrainNet, they can:
- Work together on complex assembly steps.
- Distribute tasks among multiple robots to improve speed and accuracy.
- Assist human workers, taking on repetitive or physically demanding tasks.
This ability to work in teams makes Walker S1 robots a game-changer for industrial automation.
4. Real-Time Decision-Making and Adaptation:
One of the biggest limitations of traditional robots is that they require strict programming to handle specific tasks. Any change in the environment can cause disruptions. Walker S1 robots, however, can:
- Recognize objects and plan movements accordingly.
- Adjust workflows dynamically if a production issue arises.
- Correct mistakes autonomously to prevent slowdowns.
By combining mobility, dexterity, and AI-driven intelligence, Walker S1 robots are bringing real-time adaptability to industrial automation, making Zeekr’s Smart Factory more efficient, responsive, and future-ready.
What This Means for the Future:
UBTECH and Zeekr’s collaboration is more than just a technological breakthrough—it’s a glimpse into the future of automation. The success of dozens of Walker S1 robots working together in a real-world factory setting proves that humanoid robots are ready for large-scale deployment.
1. Manufacturing: Working Alongside Human Workers
In the near future, humanoid robots like Walker S1 could become a standard part of factory floors worldwide. Instead of replacing human workers, these robots will work alongside them, handling tasks that require precision, endurance, or repetitive motion. Their ability to move freely and adapt makes them ideal for dynamic assembly lines.
2. Logistics: Managing Inventory and Packing Shipments
Warehouses and distribution centers are already seeing automation, but most existing systems are static and require extensive setup. Walker S1 robots offer a flexible alternative, capable of:
- Navigating warehouse floors autonomously.
- Sorting, packing, and transporting shipments.
- Adjusting to new workflows without reprogramming.
This adaptability will make logistics operations more efficient and scalable.
3. Retail: Assisting Customers and Restocking Shelves
Humanoid robots could soon become commonplace in stores, helping both customers and employees. Walker S1 robots could:
- Guide shoppers to products.
- Restock shelves efficiently.
- Assist with store management, reducing labor shortages.
With AI-powered interaction and mobility, robots like Walker S1 could revolutionize the shopping experience.
4. Healthcare: Supporting Hospital Staff and Elderly Care
The healthcare sector faces a growing demand for support staff, and humanoid robots could provide critical assistance. Walker S1 robots could:
- Transport medical supplies within hospitals.
- Help patients with mobility and daily tasks.
- Assist caregivers in elderly homes.
With AI-driven perception and mobility, these robots could enhance patient care while reducing strain on medical staff.
5. Smart Homes: Helping with Household Tasks
Beyond industrial and commercial use, humanoid robots could soon become household assistants. In the future, Walker S1 robots could:
- Perform household chores like cleaning and organizing.
- Help elderly individuals with daily activities.
- Integrate with smart home systems for seamless automation.
As AI and robotics continue to advance, humanoid robots could become an essential part of everyday life, making homes more convenient and accessible.
Humanoid Robots Are Changing the Workplace:
UBTECH’s Walker S1 robots at Zeekr’s Smart Factory mark a major shift in automation. Unlike traditional machines, these humanoid robots walk, adapt, and work together, handling complex tasks with AI-driven intelligence. Powered by BrainNet, they communicate, share data, and make real-time decisions—just like human workers. They move materials, inspect products, and assist in assembly without strict programming. Their impact goes beyond manufacturing, with potential in warehouses, healthcare, retail, and homes. Rather than replacing workers, they enhance efficiency and safety. The future of work is here—where humans and intelligent robots collaborate to reshape industries and everyday life.
