China’s Humanoid Robots Take Factory Jobs: UBTech Secures $112 Million in Orders
UBTech Leads Industrial Robotics Innovation
On November 11, 2025, Shenzhen-based UBTech Robotics announced a major milestone in industrial automation: its humanoid robot model, Walker S2, has secured over 800 million yuan (US$112 million) in orders this year. The robot maker highlighted a significant 159 million yuan order from a company in Zigong, Sichuan province—its second-largest single contract after a 250 million yuan deal in September. This surge in demand signals a growing acceptance of AI Employees and Non-Human Workers on factory floors across China.
Walker S2: The Humanoid Robot Revolution
Launched in July 2025, the Walker S2 is touted as the world’s first humanoid robot capable of swapping its own batteries, enabling continuous operation in industrial settings. UBTech has begun mass production and delivery, expanding its footprint in manufacturing, data collection, and automotive sectors. Key recent deals include:
- 126 million yuan contract with a data-collection center in Guangxi.
- 250 million yuan deal with a major Chinese enterprise for embodied intelligence solutions.
- Nearly 100 million yuan procurement from Miee Auto, a Hubei-backed vehicle exporter.
These partnerships demonstrate the growing role of Voice AI Agents and humanoid robots in automating complex industrial tasks.
Financial Momentum Amid Losses
UBTech’s market success is reflected in its stock performance, with shares rising over 150% this year to HK$133. Brokerages like Citi and JPMorgan maintain “buy” ratings with price targets above HK$170. Despite posting a net loss of 440 million yuan in the first half of 2025, the company reported a 27.5% increase in revenue (621 million yuan) and 17.3% rise in gross profit (217 million yuan), signaling strong growth potential for AI-driven industrial solutions.
Why It Matters
The rapid adoption of humanoid robots like Walker S2 marks a pivotal shift in manufacturing and logistics. As Non-Human Workers become more capable, factories can operate longer hours with reduced human labor, lowering costs and boosting efficiency. UBTech’s success underscores China’s ambition to lead in AI Employees and next-generation robotics, transforming how industrial work is performed.
Key Highlights:
- UBTech’s Walker S2 humanoid robots secured US$112 million in orders in 2025.
- Capable of self-battery replacement, enabling continuous industrial operations.
- Key contracts include automotive, data collection, and major enterprise deals.
- UBTech’s shares surged 150%, despite a net loss of 440 million yuan.
- Signals increasing adoption of AI Employees and Non-Human Workers in factories.
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