In industrial and professional service classes worldwide in 2025, the total 7 thousand humanoid robots were sold. Data prepared by the International Federation of Robotics shows that commercial interest in bipedal robots is increasing. However, a significant portion of the devices sold were used for research, software development and real-world data collection, rather than being constantly on the production line.
According to Reuters’ news based on IFR data, the figure includes net sales. This classification is intended to distinguish prototypes produced solely for demonstration or trial devices that change hands within the company. Still, there are differences between manufacturers’ definitions of “humanoid robot” in terms of size and use.
Manufacturers are testing robots in in-factory material handling, parts sorting, simple assembly and warehouse tasks. The body, which is close to human form, promises to use existing environments such as stairs, doors and workbenches without changing them. However, it is still difficult to move safely on two legs, repeat tasks that require manual dexterity, and work throughout shifts.
Sales quantity therefore does not directly equal efficient production capacity. A robot sent to a research laboratory can collect data for months, but it may not be able to perform a task in a factory without interruption. When evaluating the figure of 7 thousand units, it is necessary to maintain the difference between pilot installations and regular commercial use.
Humanoid robots try to pass pilot stage in factories
Battery life, risk of falling and maintenance cost are among the main obstacles to widespread use. In addition, the speed, force and emergency stop rules of machines working in the same area with people must be strictly verified. Just because a robot does one job during a demonstration doesn’t mean it will maintain the same success during an eight-hour shift.
On the other hand, the start of sales provides real usage data to manufacturers. This data can be used to improve walking, cognition and visual perception software. Higher production runs can reduce parts costs; However, businesses will calculate return on investment based on the number of tasks completed and uptime rather than the human form.
IFR’s data of 7 thousand units should not be confused with the higher “shipment” estimates announced by other research companies. The organization limits its sales scope to industrial and professional service robots. Wheeled double-arm systems or some small devices sold only for educational purposes can be evaluated in different categories.
The number in the report is based on systems sold for professional use, not personal home robots.
The International Federation of Robotics will publish the detailed report for 2025 on September 24. When the breakdown of manufacturers, countries and areas of use is announced, it will be clearer how many of the 7 thousand robots are used in research and how many are used in regular operations.