The world of robotics just got a major shakeup with the debut of Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1, a groundbreaking innovation that can cook, care, and assist in multiple industries. Unveiled at the IFA 2025 tech show in Berlin and another major event in Shanghai, R1 wowed audiences by cooking shrimp live on stage, showcasing a future where robots could become part of our daily lives.
This launch signals that humanoid robots are moving beyond science fiction and closer to practical reality. With Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1, the tech giant behind Alipay aims to tackle real-world problems in food service, healthcare, and hospitality.
Cooking Demo That Stole the Show
At the Berlin event, spectators watched as Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 handled a cooking demonstration, carefully preparing shrimp in a wok. While the process wasn’t lightning fast, it highlighted the robot’s potential to assist in kitchens, restaurants, and homes. Imagine walking into a café where robots prepare meals or deliver food straight to your table—that’s the vision Ant Group is promoting.
Key Features of Ant Group’s Humanoid Robot R1
Here’s what makes Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 stand out:
- Size & Build: About human height (1.6–1.75 meters) and weighing 110 kg, though it moves on wheels instead of legs.
- Flexible Motion: With 34 degrees of freedom, its arms and hands can perform a variety of tasks.
- Steady Speed: Moves at under 1.5 meters per second, slow but stable.
- Use Cases: Could work as a kitchen assistant, caregiver, or tour guide.
Ant Group has already tested R1 in restaurants and community centers, though there’s no official launch date or pricing yet.
Beyond Cooking: Real-World Applications
While cooking got all the attention, Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 has broader ambitions:
- Healthcare: Assisting elderly people as a companion or caregiver.
- Tourism: Guiding visitors through museums or attractions.
- Hospitality: Helping with check-ins or delivering food in hotels.
With labor shortages in sectors like caregiving and food service, robots like R1 could provide much-needed support.
Beyond Cooking: Real-World Applications
While cooking got all the attention, Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 has broader ambitions:
- Healthcare: Assisting elderly people as a companion or caregiver.
- Tourism: Guiding visitors through museums or attractions.
- Hospitality: Helping with check-ins or delivering food in hotels.
With labor shortages in sectors like caregiving and food service, robots like R1 could provide much-needed support.
Competing in the Global Race for Humanoid Robots
Ant Group joins big names like Tesla, which has its Optimus robot, in the race to develop humanoid AI-powered machines. With strong funding, access to advanced AI, and China’s robust supply chains, Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 might have an edge over competitors who have struggled to deliver beyond hype.
Why It Matters
Humanoid robots like Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 represent a future where AI meets physical assistance:
- Helping with labor shortages
- Supporting aging populations
- Delivering interactive, human-like services
But real-world success will depend on safety, affordability, and reliability.
What’s Next?
Key things to watch for include:
- A clear launch timeline for Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1
- Field testing in hospitals, restaurants, and homes
- User feedback on performance and safety
- A second-generation R1, already in development
The dream of a practical humanoid robot isn’t new. But with Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1, the future might finally be taking shape.
If you had Ant Group’s humanoid robot R1 at home, would you trust it to cook dinner or care for your loved ones?