Back in the Race: Xiaomi Accelerates Humanoid Robotics Push with Second-Gen Prototype

August 19, 2026 – Xiaomi is set to unveil its next-generation humanoid robot for the first time at the 2026 World Robot Conference (WRC), which kicks off today in Beijing. The new prototype stands approximately 1.70 meters tall and weighs 66 kilograms, featuring a highly advanced mechanical design with 66 degrees of freedom (DoF) across its body. Notably, half of these degrees of freedom are concentrated in its hands, signaling a major leap in dexterity. Following its domestic debut, the robot will be showcased in Europe.

This second-generation model represents a comprehensive upgrade over Xiaomi’s first humanoid robot, CyberOne (nicknamed “Tieda”), which was announced by CEO Lei Jun in August 2022. While the original CyberOne stood 1.77 meters tall, weighed 52 kilograms, and possessed only 21 joint degrees of freedom, the new iteration more than triples that number. The 33 DoF dedicated to the hands alone drastically enhance its fine manipulation capabilities.

Physically, the new robot is slightly shorter but significantly heavier, with a 27% weight increase. This more compact and robust build is likely attributed to the integration of additional joint modules, advanced sensors, and a highly complex hand structure. Xiaomi has already demonstrated its progress in tactile technology; earlier prototypes showcased a dexterous hand with full-palm tactile coverage and 22-27 DoF, and the new model pushes this boundary even further. In April 2026, leaked footage revealed the robot’s mechanical arm successfully performing tasks such as carrying gift bags, fist-bumping, and high-fiving.

Although CyberOne’s 2022 debut preceded Tesla’s Optimus prototype by nearly two months, Xiaomi remained relatively quiet in the robotics sector afterward. However, the company has recently accelerated its efforts. In 2024, Xiaomi’s robotics lab relocated to an automotive factory in Yizhuang for real-world “internship” testing. With the robot arm’s public appearance in April and the official debut of the full second-generation unit at the WRC, Xiaomi is clearly doubling down on its ambitions in the humanoid robotics race.

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