The barrier to entry for humanoid robotics has officially collapsed. Chinese startup Noetix Robotics has announced the launch of Bumi, a compact, bipedal humanoid robot priced at an unprecedented $\mathbf{\yen 10,000}$ (approximately $\mathbf{\$1,370}$). The price point makes Bumi the world’s most affordable high-performance humanoid, rivaling the cost of a high-end smartphone or laptop.
Bumi is positioned to revolutionize the consumer and educational robotics markets, a significant shift from the high-cost, research-only models typically seen from Western companies like Boston Dynamics or Tesla.
Standing $\mathbf{94}$ cm ($\mathbf{3.1}$ feet) tall and weighing $\mathbf{12}$ kg ($\mathbf{26}$ pounds), Bumi is designed to be approachable and non-threatening, making it ideal for non-industrial settings.
- Affordable Performance: Despite the low cost, the robot can successfully walk on two legs, balance, and perform complex movements like dancing, showcasing stable bipedal motion.
- Open Platform: A key feature for its target market is an open programming interface and self-developed motion control system. This is intended to encourage students, hobbyists, and developers to learn and experiment with advanced robotics.
- Lightweight Build: Bumi utilizes lightweight composite materials and is powered by a $\mathbf{48}$-volt battery, providing approximately two hours of operation.
The announcement marks a major milestone for the robotics industry, bringing a complex technology out of the lab and closer to mass adoption. Noetix Robotics plans to open preorders for Bumi between the Chinese shopping festivals Double 11 (November $\mathbf{11}$th) and Double 12 (December $\mathbf{12}$th) this year.
Noetix is effectively creating a new consumer category, putting a walking, dancing humanoid robot in a price bracket that makes it accessible for schools, curious hobbyists, and technology-focused families.
