Photos: High-tech humanoids steal the spotlight at Japan’s 2025 International Robot Exhibition

The 2025 International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo, marking its 26th edition, spotlighted advanced humanoid and AI-driven robots designed to collaborate with humans rather than replace them. Centered on the theme "Sustainable Societies Through Robotics," the event emphasized robots’ roles in supporting industries and addressing social challenges by working alongside people in homes, factories, and public spaces. Major companies and research groups showcased intelligent machines capable of object recognition, voice command processing, and complex decision-making, reflecting a growing expectation for adaptable robotic systems. Notable demonstrations included Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ humanoid robot performing emergency tasks like extinguishing a fire and rescuing a toy cat, highlighting its potential use in hazardous environments. Kawasaki also presented CORLEO, a personal mobility robot aimed at everyday transportation. Fanuc exhibited a robotic arm that used AI to follow voice instructions and visually identify and manipulate objects, showcasing advances in simplifying human-robot interaction. The exhibition also revealed intensifying international competition, particularly between China and the U