Dexterous Robot Hand Sales in China May Triple in 2026

BEIJING -- Sales of dexterous robotic hands in China are expected to more than triple to approximately 70,200 units in 2026 from 19,200 units in 2025, according to research firm Gaogong Industry Research Institute (GGII).

The institute forecasts a 266% increase in 2026, following growth of 237% in 2025. In addition, International Data Corporation (IDC) stated Nov. 9 that global shipments of dexterity robotic hands will total approximately 25,000 units in 2026, with Chinese makers taking up more than 85% of the shipment volume.

IDC does not include those hands made for installations on their makers' robots. Estimates of the two research companies are based on different market definitions and therefore they cannot be compared.

Demand for the product is expected to be driven by makers of humanoid robots, research institutes, educational facilities, and companies that collect physical AI training data, IDC said.

Manufacturing, logistics, and commercial services are still at an early stage in their adoption of dexterous hands.

While ordinary robotic grippers make use of mechanical fingers for manipulating items of varying shape and size, dexterous hands employ coordination of fingers for performing tasks involving accurate interaction and flexibility.

As pointed out by IDC, competition amongst manufacturers is shifting from specifications like degrees of freedom and grip strength to manipulation capabilities, tactile sensing, and embodiment in AI models.

Widespread adoption in industries will depend on hands’ abilities to perform tasks consistently over long periods while maintaining cost competitiveness, as pointed out by IDC.