Key Events in the Global Robotics Industry – January 2021:
Samsung Unveils In-House AI-Powered Robotic Butler
On January 14, international media reported that Samsung is developing a domestic service robot capable of fetching laundry, loading the dishwasher, setting the table, pouring wine, and even bringing you a drink. Named Bot Handy, the robot uses cameras and artificial intelligence to recognize and interact with objects. Samsung has not yet announced its price or official launch date.
Uber Spins Off Acquired Delivery Robot Unit
On January 18, reports revealed that Uber—after acquiring food delivery giant Postmates for $2.65 billion in 2020—is now seeking investors to spin off Postmates’ robotics division, PostMatesX, into an independent company. The new entity will be renamed Serve Robotics and is already piloting autonomous sidewalk delivery robots in select U.S. cities.
Country Garden Establishes New Robotics Company
On January 18, Guangdong Meifang Zhigao Robotics Co., Ltd. was officially established, with Gong Shunsong as legal representative and registered capital of RMB 20 million. Its business scope includes R&D and sales of intelligent robots, installation and on-site maintenance of industrial robots, and more. According to Tianyancha, the company is 100% owned by Country Garden Lifestyle Services Group Co., Ltd.
Boya Gongdao Raises RMB 100 Million in Series C Funding
On January 19, Boya Gongdao, a developer of consumer-grade underwater robots, announced it had secured over RMB 100 million in Series C financing. The round was led by Lingzhong Capital, with participation from Huahe Capital, Pengbo Investment, and Zhongguancun Qihang Innovation Fund. The funds will support intensified R&D in whole-machine manufacturing processes and core underwater sensors, as well as supply chain integration.
China’s Industrial Robot Production and Sales Both Grew in 2020
According to data released by China’s National Bureau of Statistics, China’s industrial robot output from large-scale manufacturers reached a record high of 237,068 units in 2020—a year-on-year increase of 19.1%. Market demand continued to recover and diversify across downstream sectors.
Tianjin University Develops 3D-Printed Soft Robots
On January 22, researchers at Tianjin University unveiled a novel modular soft actuation method that enables direct 3D printing of flexible robots. Their approach uses thin-film pneumatic cylinders arranged in customizable configurations, demonstrating promising applications in artificial muscles and pipe-crawling robots.
Sophia’s Maker Plans Mass Production by Year-End
On January 25, Hong Kong–based Hanson Robotics announced that four humanoid models—including the famous Sophia—will begin rolling off production lines in the first half of 2021. The founder stated the company aims to sell “thousands” of robots of various sizes in 2021, though exact figures were not disclosed.
Siasun Breaks Ground on Nanchong Robotics Industrial Park
Also on January 25, Siasun Robot & Automation commenced construction of its Nanchong Intelligent Manufacturing Robotics Industrial Park in the Nanchong High-Tech Zone. With a total investment of RMB 2 billion and covering approximately 300 mu (≈50 acres), the park will house integrated factories for robotic automation systems, shared manufacturing facilities, and a base for key robot component production.
