Chinese robotics company Fourier Intelligence has announced plans to manufacture 100 units of its humanoid robot GR-1 by end of 2023. The general-purpose robot will be able to carry nearly its own 55kg weight.

Best known for rehab technologies, Fourier is expanding into humanoids that can potentially serve as nurse assistants, home companions for the elderly, and more. While an ambitious goal, Fourier's expertise in exoskeletons provides transferable capabilities in locomotion and object manipulation.

With 165cm height, 5km/h speeds, and 40-degree joint motion range, GR-1 can balance while walking, sit, stand, grasp objects, and react to gestures. Fourier has been testing various prototypes since 2021, demonstrating key skills like obstructed navigation, fragile object handling, and responding to human cues.

Software and autonomous navigation pose bigger challenges than hardware and motion, according to Fourier. To accelerate development, the company plans to distribute the initial GR-1 units to research labs for additional training. This open strategy leverages collective input on use cases versus a closed approach.

Releasing GR-1 platforms in 2023 will enable Fourier to tap collaborative innovation while refining the product. With labs tackling diverse real-world challenges, GR-1 can rapidly gain intelligence and skills needed for practical deployment.

The move aligns with surging demand for capable, general-purpose humanoid robots. While milestones have been met in mobility and manipulation, progress in cognition lags. By taking an open research approach, Fourier seeks to fast-track GR-1's ability to function independently in messy environments.

If successful, the strategy could establish Fourier early on as a leading provider of multipurpose humanoids. But it also risks diluting Fourier's control over the technology and delivery timeline. The initiative will test Fourier's ability to balance open collaboration with focused product development.

Either way, the GR-1 release marks a key milestone in humanoid robotics. Fourier's goal of 100 units demonstrates growing confidence in functional real-world application. As skills improve, humanoids like GR-1 may soon become a familiar sight in daily life.