Unitree H2 humanoid : China’s Latest Dancer Blends Strength and Grace

Unitree has unveiled its newest humanoid, the H2, standing about 1.8 meters tall and weighing roughly 70 kilograms. In the launch video released in October 2025, the robot performs a mix of dance moves, boxing routines, and even a runway walk beside a human model. With a smooth synthetic face and fluid body control, the H2 represents Unitree’s most advanced step toward lifelike movement and expressive design.

Humanoid guide was the first analytics house to provide information on the the Unitree H2 specifications and the graceful humanoid is now fully inducted in the Humanoid guide alongside it’s less graceful siblings, the G1, G2, R1 and H1.

Observers estimate that the H2 has around 31 degrees of freedom, allowing precise joint control and improved balance. It is expected to feature upgraded actuators and sensors compared to earlier models like the H1 and G1, marking a transition from pure locomotion research to human interaction and dexterous task capability.

Reactions across online communities have been varied but animated. Some viewers praised the natural motion and overall polish, saying it looks “remarkably human” and “far ahead of most Western prototypes.” Others questioned whether the demo was autonomous or remote-controlled, with one commenter joking that they’ll be impressed “when it can cook dinner and clean afterward.” The humanoid’s facial design sparked divided opinions as well: a few called it uncanny, while others appreciated the attempt at approachability.

The presentation of H2 was clearly choreographed to impress, blending technology with artistry. Unitree chose to emphasize coordination, balance, and expression rather than industrial utility. This has led to speculation about where the company is heading—toward consumer-facing service robots or advanced research platforms for embodied AI.

Pricing has not been officially revealed, but based on previous Unitree launches, analysts expect a cost in the $80,000 to $120,000 range, depending on configuration and volume. If accurate, this would make the H2 competitive with Western humanoids like 1x Neo, Figure 02 or Apptronik Apollo, while leveraging China’s cost-efficient supply chains and production speed.

The Unitree H2 signals a new phase for humanoid robotics in Asia. It bridges the gap between performance art and functional robotics, giving a glimpse of how expressive motion and advanced mechanics are converging. Whether it’s a research prototype or a future household helper, the H2 has already succeeded at one thing—getting the world talking.

Unitree published the following video today about their new H2 humanoid robot. There is no doubt that it is a few steps above the H1 and the lower range robots like the G1 and R1.

Editor’s note:

As with many first-look humanoid demos, community debate centers on autonomy vs. choreography and “show” vs. “shop-floor” value. The next meaningful reveal will be how H2 performs at practical tasks—manipulation, perception, and safety—outside the stage lights. Frankly we were expecting a launch with more dexterity and less acrobatics. We see signs of a new hand design, likely with tendon drives located in the wrist. Unitree must now quickly move from showing graceful acrobatics to useful labor using their new (and hopefully quite dexterous) hand design.