Unitree Technology Unveils Next-Generation AS2 Robot, Charting a Clear Path for 2026

On February 24, Unitree Technology unveiled its next-generation four-legged robot, the Unitree As2, showcasing impressive capabilities. This robot is not a consumer toy; instead, it is a specialized tool aimed at industrial inspections, logistics, and other sectors. This release signals Unitree’s strategic move to expand its technological advancements into broader industry applications.

The core design of the As2 focuses on achieving high explosive power within a compact body. Weighing only 18 kilograms, it boasts a peak joint torque of up to 90 N·m, which is approximately twice the power of its consumer-level predecessor, the Go2. This enables the As2 to move at speeds of up to 5 meters per second and carry a standing load of up to 65 kilograms. During demonstrations, a male adult weighing 105 kilograms stood on the Unitree As2, far exceeding its indicated standing load capacity. Such robust weight-bearing and mobility capabilities lay a solid foundation for tasks such as transportation and carrying.

Battery life and adaptability are crucial for industrial robots. The As2 can operate for over 4 hours without a load and can travel over 13 kilometers even with a 15-kilogram load. It has an IP54 protection rating, making it dustproof and splash-resistant, allowing it to handle outdoor conditions like light rain and dusty environments. In tests, it confidently traversed ditches, snowy terrain, and rocky paths, significantly broadening its applicability for outdoor inspections and security tasks.

In terms of intelligence, the As2 is equipped with a bionic embodied model, enabling it to perceive human presence and autonomously follow. It can also respond to hand gestures to move or jump. More importantly, Unitree has developed an open ecosystem around it, offering a variety of accessory options. For instance, by adding a 7-axis dexterous robotic arm, the As2 can be transformed from a mobile platform into a composite robot capable of performing tasks such as equipment operation and sample collection. This scalability reduces the barriers for enterprises to develop customized solutions.

The launch of the As2 is the latest step in Unitree’s series of initiatives from late 2025 to early 2026. As a leading player with over 60% market share in the quadruped robot sector, Unitree is shifting its focus from technological leadership to building a commercial ecosystem. On November 15, 2025, Unitree completed its IPO listing counseling, announcing plans to apply for a domestic IPO. At that time, interest in the robotics sector was at an all-time high. Within the first two months of 2026, total financing in China’s embodied intelligence sector exceeded 7.6 billion yuan. The success of pioneers like Ubtech in the Hong Kong stock market, combined with policy support for hard technology, paves the way for Unitree’s capital expansion.

Brand promotion and ecosystem construction are being pursued simultaneously. On December 31, 2025, Unitree opened its first offline store at Jingdong Mall in Beijing, showcasing the Go2, G1, and humanoid robot R1. This initiative is not just about sales; it also provides immersive experiences and serves as a market exploration platform. Almost concurrently, Unitree launched the humanoid robot “App Store”—the Apollo Store, where developers can upload and sell action models, allowing enterprise users to quickly deploy new skills for robots, similar to downloading mobile applications. This ecosystem aims to replicate the successful model of mobile internet, accelerating skill accumulation and commercialization.

Unitree’s influence is further amplified through national-level platforms. Following its explosive debut at the 2025 Spring Festival Gala, its robots made another appearance at the 2026 Gala. Founder Wang Xingxing revealed that the team developed several “world-first” actions, such as enabling robots to jump 2-3 meters high using a catapult and perform complex formations while running at high speeds. These performances exemplify advanced dynamic motion control and real-time clustering algorithms, subtly reshaping public perception of robotic capabilities.

Looking ahead to 2026, Unitree’s development path is becoming increasingly clear. Enhancing industry applications is the primary focus. The As2 is just the starting point; its open ecosystem aims to attract more integrators and developers to explore the needs of vertical markets in inspection, logistics, and security, transforming laboratory technologies into scalable solutions. Offline channels and the software ecosystem will expand in tandem. Unitree plans to grow its network of offline stores in 2026, creating a tighter integration of brand experience and sales. The maturity of the Apollo Store will serve as a crucial barrier—consolidating developer creativity and building a rich skill library that significantly lowers the entry barriers and operational costs for small and medium enterprises. This dual-driven approach of “hardware experience + software empowerment” is intended to accelerate overall commercialization.

From prioritizing ultimate motion performance to focusing on essential industry metrics like battery life, load capacity, and protection, the release of the As2 signals a pragmatic shift. Behind it lies the transformation of a star technology company into a platform enterprise with comprehensive capabilities in hardware, software, ecosystem, and capital.