Humanoid Robot Malfunctions In Factory Test: Unitree H1 Flails Near Worker In Viral Video

May 8, 2025 by Mark Allinson

A concerning video circulating online appears to show a humanoid robot experiencing a severe malfunction, coming dangerously close to a human worker. (See video below.)

The brief clip, which has quickly gained traction across social media platforms, depicts the advanced automaton making erratic and forceful movements within what seems to be a factory or research environment.

In the shaky footage, the robot, a Unitree H1 humanoid, is seen suspended from a construction crane when it lost control and wildly flailed its arms and legs.

It dragged its stand, causing a computer and other items to crash to the floor. A man attempted to stabilize the robot as the incident unfolded.

“It's unsettling to watch,” commented one user on X (formerly Twitter).“You see these advanced robots, and then something like this happens. Makes you wonder about the safety protocols.”

While details surrounding the video remain scarce, the incident has already ignited a debate about the increasing integration of advanced robotics in human workspaces and the potential risks involved.

The incident, which occurred during testing at a Chinese factory, has triggered conversations online about the potential risks of artificial intelligence.

There have been previous incidents involving robots, including one where a Unitree robot lunged at a crowd during a festival. (See video below.)

Software malfunctions have been identified as the cause in many similar cases.

Authorities in China have yet to release an official statement regarding the video. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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