AI, interactive demand to drive humanoid robot market beyond $2bn by 2027

TrendForce’s latest findings show that the global humanoid robot market is expected to surpass US$2 billion in value by 2027, supported by major robotics manufacturers gradually achieving mass production by 2025. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 154% between 2024 and 2027, with service-oriented robots benefiting significantly from advancements in generative AI, which further enhances market appeal. 

Current software platforms are focused on training machine learning and digital twin simulation, while hardware development emphasizes collaborative robots, mobile robotic arms, and humanoid robots designed to adapt to diverse environments and human-machine interactions.

Notable players in the U.S. and China are expanding testing for humanoid robots, with key manufacturers unveiling increasingly mature products. Examples include Agility Robotics’ “Digit”, Apptronik’s “Apollo”, and Tesla’s “Optimus,” all of which are slated for commercial availability between 2025 and 2027.

TrendForce notes that the commercialization of humanoid robots hinges on advancements in perception, conversational interaction, and motion execution capabilities. Generative AI has already led to breakthroughs in cognitive abilities, enabling robots to perceive and process contextual elements like people, places, and events. Conversational capabilities have also significantly improved, allowing robots to engage in multi-dimensional dialogues with humans.

The capabilities of humanoid robots to execute motion depend heavily on advancements in key components. TrendForce reports that planetary roller screws currently account for 22% of components costs—the highest share—followed by composite materials (including plastics and metals) at 9%, 6D force-torque sensors at 8%, and hollow-cup motors at 6%. These components face considerable technical barriers. 

The software and hardware supply chains for humanoid robots are expected to heavily overlap with those of smart devices, industrial robots, and drones. Suppliers with competitive advantages in these sectors are well-positioned to transition into the humanoid robot market.

Trends 2025
In 2025, industrial robots will continue to dominate tasks, such as robotic arms for picking and packing, while service-oriented robots will gain traction with support from generative AI. These robots will excel in multimodal interaction, offering enhanced functionality and adaptability.

TrendForce highlights that countries facing labor shortages and aging populations are already demonstrating demand for companion and caregiving robots. Service robots catering to these needs are expected to emerge within the next one to two years, overcoming their historically limited market appeal. Additionally, robots are playing an increasingly strategic role in warfare, with applications ranging from drones to combat, demining, and logistical robots, presenting significant growth potential in this area.

The Robots-as-a-service (RaaS) business model is expected to gain traction as demand for robots across diverse markets rises. RaaS enables businesses and consumers to lease robots instead of purchasing them outright, which reduces upfront costs and risks.

This model allows government and enterprises to reap the benefits of automation and unmanned operations, while also appealing to household consumers. By lowering adoption barriers, RaaS is poised to accelerate the penetration of robots across industries and everyday life.

Source: TrendForce, Taiwan.