China’s humanoid robot powered by solid-state battery to greet shoppers in 2026

At the 2025 AI Day in Guangzhou, Chinese firm Xpeng revealed the second-generation IRON humanoid robot. Engineers spent a year upgrading its movement, control, and balance systems to make it behave like a person navigating a busy street.

The new version can walk, talk, and interact with people in real time. Standing 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and weighing 154 pounds (70 kg), it appears to be an average adult but operates with far more precision.

Unlike traditional scripted robots, IRON’s strength lies in its ability to blend advanced software with flexible mechanics. It can recognize surroundings, respond to people, and perform daily tasks smoothly.

Built with muscle-like flexibility

IRON’s frame is modeled on a human spine and muscles. Its synthetic muscles can stretch and contract, giving it natural, fluid motion. The robot has 62 active joints that allow it to shrug, twist, or balance on uneven ground.

Each hand has 22 degrees of movement, letting it hold small tools or large boxes with equal control. A curved display wraps around its head, forming a “face” that changes expressions while speaking.

The skin feels soft, powered by a lightweight all-solid-state battery that provides long-lasting energy without overheating. The upgraded battery also removes the safety risks found in older designs.

The robot can answer questions, fold laundry, or guide a visitor through a store. Developers can access an open toolkit to program new functions for offices, showrooms, or warehouses.

Walking into the real world

Walking has long been one of robotics’ hardest challenges, but IRON’s stride looks almost human. Its foot joints absorb shock on hard floors like concrete, helping it maintain balance. Tests show it moving at about 6.5 feet per second (2 meters per second) while avoiding obstacles with ease.

This lifelike motion comes from training its AI on thousands of hours of human walking footage, rather than using preset rules. Early videos show IRON gliding through crowds and lifting objects without hesitation.

The first rollout will take place in retail environments, where IRON will greet customers and display new products. Xpeng plans to deploy units inside the company by the end of next year, followed by new roles such as reception and sales support.

Baoshan Iron & Steel has already partnered with Xpeng to use IRON in monitoring equipment for wear and tear. The company hopes the robot will detect faults before breakdowns occur.

With its natural movement, expressive face, and adaptable intelligence, IRON marks a major step toward humanoid robots that can truly work alongside humans.