Core Viewpoint - WIRobotics has launched its first general-purpose humanoid robot ALLEX, marking its expansion from exoskeleton robots to humanoid robotics, aiming to set a new benchmark in human-robot interaction and overcome existing technological limitations [1][3]. Company Development - WIRobotics, founded in June 2021 by Yeon-baek Lee, Yong-jae Kim, and two former Samsung robotics engineers, focuses on wearable and humanoid robots, with a vision of enhancing quality of life through technology [3]. - The company previously developed exoskeleton robots, including WIBS and WIM, which won CES Innovation Awards in 2024 and 2025, and received approximately 500 commercial orders within eight months [3][4]. - In March 2024, WIRobotics completed a Series A funding round of 13 billion KRW to accelerate the adoption of wearable robots [4]. ALLEX Robot Features - ALLEX is designed as an "ALL-EXperience" robot, featuring upper body capabilities that respond to physical stimuli, aiming for human-like interaction [1]. - The robot's upper body incorporates a gravity compensation mechanism for ergonomic design and stability, with a new high-degree-of-freedom (DOF) robotic hand that can sense reaction forces and adapt to external loads [6]. - ALLEX's mechanical hand has 15 degrees of freedom, capable of detecting forces as low as 100 gf, with a fingertip precision of 0.3 mm or less, and can exert a fingertip force of 40 N and a gripping force exceeding 30 kg [7]. Technological Advancements - ALLEX features a new drive and control technology with ultra-low friction and high-load actuators, enabling human-level adaptability and force control [9]. - The robot's lightweight structure allows it to perform human-like movements, with a total weight of approximately 5 kg and the ability to lift over 3 kg with one hand, comparable to mid-range collaborative robots [9]. Future Plans and Ecosystem - Although ALLEX is still in the prototype stage, WIRobotics aims to develop specific humanoid robot solutions based on customer needs in industrial, medical rehabilitation, and military sectors [12]. - The company is building an open innovation ecosystem and has partnered with various research institutions, including MIT and UIUC, to enhance ALLEX's intelligence and capabilities [12]. - WIRobotics plans to expand ALLEX into a modular platform and aims to launch a general-purpose humanoid robot by 2030, suitable for everyday use in homes and restaurants [14]. Challenges - Despite its advancements, WIRobotics faces challenges in developing the lower body of ALLEX, particularly in achieving dynamic balance, which is crucial for humanoid robots [15].