In Japan, robotics developers are showcasing advanced humanoid machines capable of performing delicate tasks such as threading needles, dancing, and assisting with deliveries.

The Humanoids Summit 2026 in Tokyo featured major companies, including Boston Dynamics and Toyota Motor Corp., alongside emerging Chinese firms such as Booster Robotics and LimX Dynamics.

Reports suggest that Chinese entrants, building on earlier Japanese and US innovations, have begun to dominate attention by refining humanoid technology for lower-cost production. This reflects a shift in global robotics leadership, as Japan struggles to consistently commercialize early advantages at scale today.

Recently, a Japanese university opened a robotics lab where 10 robots, including Maholo LabDroid, conduct medical experiments without human staff, aiming for full automation.

AI robot showcase

Humanoid robots, robotic hands, and quadruped machines took center stage at the Humanoids Summit 2026 in Tokyo, which is taking place from May 28-29, highlighting both Japan’s engineering strengths and the growing influence of Chinese robotics technology.

Among the demonstrations was a humanoid robot being developed by a local AI firm, GMO, for airport cargo handling and logistics support. The machine, equipped with camera-based vision systems, is designed to perform tasks in the same way as human workers, so it can integrate directly into existing workflows. The project reflects Japan’s growing push toward automation amid labor shortages and an aging workforce, as reported by AP. 

The humanoid’s core robotic systems were developed by Chinese robotics company Unitree, which also showcased a dog-like quadruped robot designed for exploration and mobility applications. The presence of Chinese-developed systems throughout the exhibition underscored the growing role of Chinese companies as major players in the global humanoid robotics industry.

Japanese robotics firms also displayed advanced manipulation technologies. Honda demonstrated a highly dexterous robotic hand capable of handling delicate tasks such as threading a needle and tightening tiny bolts. The display emphasized Japan’s continued expertise in precision engineering and durable manufacturing.

Other exhibits included compact bipedal robots, service humanoids, and robotic avatars designed for future use in logistics, caregiving, industrial work, and public interaction. Experts suggest the summit illustrated a growing global competition in humanoid robotics, with Japanese developers focusing on precision and reliability while Chinese companies push rapid commercialization and lower-cost production, AP reported.

Aging workforce automation

Japan is accelerating the adoption of AI and humanoid robots across industries as it faces a worsening labor shortage and a rapidly aging workforce. 

The East Asian country is the world’s most “super-aged” society, with 28.7 percent of people aged 65 or older, and women making up the majority. It also has a record of 80,000 centenarians. The population is shrinking, falling from about 127 million in 2015 and projected to drop to around 88 million by 2065. By 2036, a third of the population is expected to be over 65.

Several companies are already testing humanoid robots in real-world environments, including airport cargo operations and service-related tasks linked to growing tourism demand. Industry leaders say automation is becoming essential as the shrinking workforce struggles to meet rising operational needs.

At the Humanoids Summit in Tokyo, robotics researchers and developers highlighted how humanoid robots and remote-controlled robotic avatars could help address long-term labor challenges. Japan’s strict immigration policies and declining population are pushing the country to explore alternative workforce solutions through the integration of robotics and AI.

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