Markets
Global Industrial Robot Stock Exceeds 5 Million Amid Humanoid Robot Challenges
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has announced that the global operational stock of industrial robots has reached over 5 million, marking the highest number ever recorded. This milestone, detailed in the IFR's World Robotics 2026 report, coincides with a period of declining enthusiasm for humanoid robots, which are struggling to find a foothold in the market.
According to the report, the stock of industrial robots saw a 9% year-over-year increase, with more than 600,000 new units installed in 2025 alone. China was the dominant player in this growth, accounting for 354,000 installations, or 59% of global deployments, reflecting a 20% increase from the previous year. The United States has now surpassed Japan to become the second-largest market for industrial robots, with approximately 38,500 installations, a 12% rise. In contrast, Japan experienced a decline in installations, falling 19% to 36,219 units.
While industrial robots are thriving, the humanoid robot sector is facing significant challenges. Boston Dynamics, a prominent player known for its advanced robotics, indicated that an IPO in 2027 is unlikely due to limited deployments of its Atlas humanoid robot and ongoing financial losses. The company reported a loss of 528.4 billion won in 2025, approximately $400 million.
Similarly, in China, the humanoid sector is experiencing a slowdown. Unitree Robotics, which had a promising debut on the Shanghai stock exchange, saw its stock plummet by 55% after an initial surge. Regulatory bodies in China have also introduced measures to slow down the pace of humanoid robot IPOs, affecting at least six companies that were preparing for listings.
Amid these developments, billionaire investor Mark Cuban has expressed skepticism about the future of humanoid robots, predicting they will fail within the next five to ten years. He argues that the focus should shift towards robots designed specifically for their tasks, rather than humanoid forms.
FAQ
What milestone did the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) announce regarding industrial robots?
The IFR announced that the global operational stock of industrial robots has exceeded 5 million, marking the highest number ever recorded.
Which country accounted for the majority of new industrial robot installations in 2025?
China accounted for the majority of new installations, with 354,000 units, representing 59% of global deployments.
How has the market for humanoid robots been performing recently?
The humanoid robot sector is facing significant challenges, with companies like Boston Dynamics reporting financial losses and a slowdown in deployments.
What are the recent trends in the industrial robot market in the United States?
The United States has surpassed Japan to become the second-largest market for industrial robots, with approximately 38,500 installations, reflecting a 12% rise.
What is billionaire investor Mark Cuban's opinion on humanoid robots?
Mark Cuban has expressed skepticism about the future of humanoid robots, predicting they will fail within the next five to ten years and suggesting a focus on task-specific robots instead.