Humanoid: Scaling Humanoid Robot Platforms for Real-World Use

Humanoid: Scaling Humanoid Robot Platforms for Real-World Use

Humanoid (SKL Robotics Ltd.) is a robotics startup developing advanced humanoid robots intended to operate alongside humans in a wide range of environments, from warehouses and factories to service roles. Founded in 2024 with leadership and engineering talent from global robotics ecosystems, the company positions itself at the forefront of commercialising general-purpose humanoid machines that blend mobility, manipulation, and perceptual intelligence.

Technology and Product

The first product family, HMND 01, comprises modular robots available in different configurations, such as a wheeled base for stable, efficient movement and a bipedal version for more human-like mobility. These units integrate advanced AI models for perception and task coordination, described by the company as a VLM and VLA-based KinetIQ framework that supports visual reasoning, language understanding, and action planning. The modular hardware design and adaptable software aim to let one platform address varied tasks—such as goods handling, pick-and-pack assistance, and part-handling in manufacturing—without rebuilding environments to fit fixed automation.

HMND 01: Modular humanoid robots with advanced reasoning and task execution capabilities. (© Andor Ivan for Humanoid (SKL Robotics Ltd.)

Industrial Fit and Applications

Humanoid robots are positioned for logistics, warehousing, and industrial workflows where conventional automation is limited by fixed infrastructure or tool-specific programming. In goods handling and fulfilment, e.g. the machines can assist with repetitive lifting and movement tasks. In manufacturing, they are intended to support part handling, kitting, and machine feeding. Their human-like form factor is also designed to ease integration into environments originally built for people, reducing the need for extensive workspace redesign. Demonstrations of early prototypes focus on loco-manipulation and perception in controlled settings, with commercial deployment projected in coming years.

High-torque actuation, advanced mechanicis and AI aim to deliver humanoid manipulation at industrial scale. (© Andor Ivan for Humanoid (SKL Robotics Ltd.)

Founding Team

Humanoid was founded by Artem Sokolov (CEO), a serial entrepreneur with experience in building ventures and scaling businesses. Sokolov has assembled a team of more than 200 professionals and is actively involved in shaping the company’s strategic direction, positioning humanoid robots as a general-purpose platform. This vision has driven Humanoid’s focus on modular hardware and adaptable AI designed for real-world deployment.