经济观察报·2025-08-23 10:47Core Viewpoint - The threshold for entering the robotics industry has significantly lowered, leading to a surge of diverse companies from various sectors attempting to manufacture robots, raising questions about the sustainability and viability of this trend [4][5][6]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The nature of "building robots" is changing, evolving from a complex task to a more accessible one, where assembling a robot is becoming a reality rather than a joke [3][6]. - The number of humanoid robot-related companies in China reached 834 by late July 2025, with over half having registered capital exceeding 10 million [6][11]. - The growth in registrations of humanoid robot companies surged by over 180% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year [6]. Group 2: New Players and Cross-Industry Involvement - Companies from various backgrounds, including traditional manufacturing and investment sectors, are entering the robotics field, such as Vision Technology and Jiuding Investment [4][5][13]. - Midea Group, leveraging its ownership of KUKA, is developing humanoid robots for home and factory applications, showcasing a strategic approach to robotics [15]. - Automotive companies like GAC Group are also entering the robotics space, emphasizing the technological synergies between automotive and robotics [15]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - The availability of standardized components for robots, such as sensors and actuators, has made it easier for companies to assemble robots [6][11]. - Domestic suppliers are beginning to break the monopoly of foreign brands in critical components like harmonic reducers and planetary roller screws [8][9]. - The development of specialized components, such as the BrainCo bionic hand and advanced laser radar from Hesai Technology, indicates significant progress in the robotics supply chain [7][8]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Challenges - The influx of capital into the robotics sector has led to a competitive environment, with many companies seeking to establish themselves amid rising expectations [6][19]. - Despite the enthusiasm, the integration of various components and ensuring system stability remains a significant challenge for the industry [19][20]. - The industry is still in its early commercial stages, with many companies relying on external funding rather than self-sustaining business models [21]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The future of the robotics industry may lead to a diverse ecosystem where specialized companies coexist, focusing on niche applications while core component suppliers support the overall market [21]. - The successful companies will likely be those that can identify real-world applications and maintain resilience in a capital-intensive environment [21].