Unitree Unveils H2 Humanoid Robot With a Human Face and Ballerina-Like Agility

Unitree Robotics has unveiled its new flagship H2 humanoid robot, which stands 180 cm tall and weighs 70 kg. The robot has a human face, and in its first demonstration videos, it performs fluid dance moves and martial arts techniques with precise joint control and improved stability. The H2 builds on the previous H1 model but introduces improvements in the form of 31 degrees of freedom, up from 27 in the H1. This gives it a more natural range of motion, balance, and human-like movements.

Technical details

Each of the H2 robot's legs has 6 degrees of freedom, compared to 5 on the H1, thanks to an additional ankle joint that enables more complex foot movements. Each arm has 7 degrees of freedom—3 in the shoulder, 1 in the elbow, and 3 in the wrist—allowing human-like movements that are important for handling objects. Each arm has a payload capacity of 7 kg in standard mode and up to 21 kg at maximum. The robot uses an F-A-R (flexion-abduction-rotation) hip configuration, replacing the H1's older R-A-F configuration, and adds a three-axis waist for better overall mobility. The H2's speed is below 2 m/s, which is less than the H1's 3.3 m/s, but the focus has shifted toward strength and agility. Computing power is provided by up to three Nvidia Jetson Orin NX modules together with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, and optional dexterous hands, which the H1 did not have, can be added.

Thanks to its full human size, the H2 can easily operate in environments designed for people, performing tasks such as opening doors, working with tools, or handling objects on standard work surfaces. Video demonstrations showing the H2 dancing and performing kung fu moves on stage highlight its dynamic agility. Unitree CEO Wang Xingxing previously outlined a plan that the H2 fulfills, and the robot features a mask with stylized human features, which could be part of a design intended to improve interaction with people.

Unitree's strategy

Unitree is building a two-tier product lineup. The H2 serves as a premium model focused on agility, realistic performance, and demanding applications. On the other hand, the more affordable R1 serves as a platform for developers and was recognized in TIME magazine's Best Inventions list. The R1 is priced at around $5,900, which is approximately CZK 123,310 at the current exchange rate. This approach enables Unitree to target both advanced users and the broader community in fields such as logistics, services, and manufacturing.

Source: humanoidsdaily.com