Why humanoid robots need legs

At Agility Robotics, we are often asked: Why legs? This question is valid, especially when Digit is seen working in environments where the floors are typically flat and uniform such as warehouses or distribution centers. Many wonder if wheeled robots would be a more efficient solution in such settings.

The truth is, for certain applications—such as forklifts or pallet movers—wheels are indeed the optimal choice. In use cases that require transporting heavy loads over long flat surfaces, wheeled systems perform very well. However, we are focused on a broader vision: creating multi-purpose, mobile manipulators that can operate in dynamic, human-centered environments.

Bipedal robots provide the flexibility needed to navigate a world designed for people. Our robots are not limited to flat ground; they are designed to move through complex spaces—handling stairs, navigating outdoor terrain, and overcoming obstacles such as curbs and cable covers. These robots are built to go where people go, enabling them to perform various tasks in environments that were not specifically designed for robots.

Our choice to develop bipedal systems is rooted in Agility Robotics' deep expertise in dynamic locomotion. This foundation gives us a unique advantage in the field, allowing our robots to balance dynamically and maintain a small footprint while still having the ability to reach higher objects or operate in confined spaces. This robust dynamic stability allows the legs to act as a precise positioning system for manipulation tasks as well as a means of locomotion.

Ultimately, Agility Robotics’ mission is to develop robots that can seamlessly integrate into everyday environments, performing useful tasks in real-world settings. These robots are designed to coexist with humans, offering versatility and mobility beyond what wheeled robots can achieve. By leveraging legs, our robots can function in the same spaces as people, adapt to complex environments, and fulfill a wide range of needs.

At Agility, we believe this capability is essential for the future of robotics, as we continue to develop systems that can navigate the complexities of the real world and bring tangible value to human-centered spaces.