Qi Lu Wan Bao·2025-09-11 02:51Core Insights - The humanoid robot industry is rapidly transitioning from research and development to large-scale commercial applications, becoming a key focus for major domestic home appliance companies seeking new growth opportunities [1][2] - The potential market for humanoid robots is projected to reach $60 trillion globally, with China expected to achieve a market size of 6 trillion yuan by 2050 [2] - The aging population in China, with over 310 million individuals aged 60 and above, presents a significant consumer base for humanoid robots that can assist with home care [2] Group 1: Industry Developments - Haier's humanoid robot division was established in 2021, focusing on creating a product matrix for service robots, including companionship and rehabilitation robots [2][3] - Midea has officially entered the humanoid robot market, showcasing its household humanoid robot at the IFA 2025 exhibition [1][2] - UBTECH announced a procurement contract worth 250 million yuan, marking the largest single order in the global humanoid robot sector [1] Group 2: Technological Advancements - Haier's humanoid robot "HIVA" is currently in the testing phase, capable of performing various household tasks with remote control, indicating the potential for future autonomous operation [3][4] - Midea's humanoid robot demonstrates capabilities in household tasks such as cooking and cleaning, showcasing the competitive landscape in the home service robot market [3][4] - Both companies are focusing on developing specialized robots for different household tasks to reduce costs and enhance consumer accessibility [4][5] Group 3: Strategic Collaborations - Haier has partnered with Star Motion Era to launch the household service robot "Xiaoxing" and has invested in Shanghai New Times to expand its industrial robot capabilities [5][6] - The establishment of a service robot manufacturing innovation center in Shandong province, led by Haier, aims to foster technological and industrial development in the humanoid robot sector [9][10] - The collaboration between Haier and various educational institutions is aimed at enhancing research and development in rehabilitation and service robots [5][8] Group 4: Market Trends - The home appliance market in China is experiencing a shift, with a retail value of 907.1 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a 6.4% year-on-year growth, while the overall growth rate for the past decade has been only 3% [2] - The transition from traditional home appliances to humanoid robots is seen as a necessary evolution for companies like Haier and Midea to sustain growth in a competitive market [6][10] - The focus on creating affordable and practical humanoid robots is essential for their acceptance as mainstream household products, moving away from being perceived as luxury items [4][7]