In Depth: Exoskeletons Offer Consumer Robotics a Chance to Find Its Footing

1. During the 2025 Lunar New Year holiday, Chinese tourists visiting the Great Wall were introduced to robotic exoskeletons, wearable devices designed to assist walking and climbing with the help of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). These exoskeletons, which provide power assistance to the lower body, have garnered attention not only for their potential industrial applications but also for their emerging roles in tourism, elderly care, medical rehabilitation, and logistics. Their use at high-profile tourist sites has demonstrated how such technology can directly impact everyday life, expanding their perceived value beyond traditional markets. [para. 1][para. 2][para. 3][para. 4]

2. ULS Robotics Co. Ltd. considers exoskeletons a major growth area due to their relevance to daily activities. Recognizing this potential, ULS launched its first consumer-focused exoskeleton in July 2025, marking a shift away from a traditional industrial customer base. Investment in exoskeleton development surged dramatically in 2025: there were 19 financing deals totaling 2.2 billion yuan (approximately $319 million), compared to eight deals worth 292 million yuan in the prior year. This reflects both increased investor confidence and maturation of the sector. [para. 4][para. 5]

3. The widespread individual acceptance of exoskeletons has been facilitated by advances in battery technology and miniaturization, according to Yu Yunbo, founder of Kenqing Technology. Kenqing is a Shenzhen-based startup developing exoskeletons for uses ranging from outdoor sports and elderly care to scientific research and firefighting. The improved portability and affordability of such devices have positioned them well for consumer markets, especially in China where there is a rapidly aging population. Nonetheless, the industry faces important hurdles regarding comfort, sophistication of AI systems, and user safety, which must be addressed to enable broader adoption. [para. 6][para. 7]

4. Unlike humanoid robots, exoskeletons provide a clearer and nearer-term commercial opportunity, notes Liu Xiaoqing, the director of analysis at ITjuzi. The success of exoskeleton rentals at Mount Tai, where usage rates reached 80% during peak seasons, underscores real market demand. Typically, visitors pay rental fees dependent on duration, assisting those who want to hike but lack stamina. The widespread adoption at Mount Tai, with 500 exoskeletons in use, serves as a large-scale proof of concept and provides vital user data for future product improvements. This success has inspired other scenic attractions to explore similar offerings. [para. 8][para. 9][para. 10][para. 11][para. 12]

5. The next phase of growth relies on direct sales to individual consumers, especially given China’s aging demographic—approximately 16% of the population was over 65 in 2024, up from 14% in 2021—driving strong market potential. Developers now focus on lightweight, affordable exoskeletons that target specific body areas, like the legs, rather than full-body designs. Kenqing, for example, reduced device weight by using fewer electric motors and leveraging advanced materials such as carbon fiber, which offer superior strength and reduced weight. Supply chain improvements have further supported device refinement. [para. 13][para. 14][para. 15][para. 16]

6. Despite promising prospects, exoskeletons still have limitations. Even at 2–3 kilograms, they can cause discomfort during extended use and are impractical for sitting or lying down. Furthermore, present AI algorithms struggle to interpret user intentions accurately, especially in users with impaired mobility, often requiring difficult manual adjustments. Safety concerns, such as the risk of motor or AI malfunctions, are significant—especially for disabled users—necessitating emergency features and insurance. Unified technical standards and regulatory frameworks are considered urgent needs for guiding the industry’s healthy development. [para. 17][para. 18][para. 19][para. 20]