IFA, one of the world's largest consumer electronics trade shows, is set to transform into a major showcase for humanoid robots. The event will highlight how robots are being deployed in daily life, service industries, healthcare, and manufacturing—not merely as demonstrations, but as practical tools.
IFA announced on July 28 that its IFA Next innovation hub at IFA 2026, scheduled for September in Berlin, will feature a dedicated humanoid robotics exhibition zone.
Around 300 companies are expected to participate in IFA Next, prompting organizers to significantly expand the exhibition space. IFA said the event will host its largest-ever humanoid robotics display. Participants from 25 countries will attend, with Korea, Italy, Taiwan, Singapore, the Philippines, and China among those operating national pavilions.
Global robotics companies including Unitree, MagicLab, Zeroth, Galbot, Pudu Robotics, Hengbot, and AGIBOT have confirmed their participation. Kenqing and Head Robotic, which develop wearable exoskeletons and assistive equipment, will also exhibit.
One of the most eye-catching programs will be “Robots on the Runway.” On Sept. 5, humanoid robots will walk on stage to demonstrate their movements and technical capabilities in a performance combining technology, motion, and entertainment.
The event, being held for the first time this year, will feature PrimeBot, EngineAI, Kozio Robotics, and Dobot Robotics. The showcase is expected to demonstrate that humanoid robots' balance and walking technologies have advanced enough for live-stage performance.
The annual RoboCup competition will also return, with researchers and students competing in robot soccer. Team Berlin United from Humboldt University of Berlin is scheduled to present a live robot soccer demonstration.
IFA 2026 is expected to underscore a broader shift in robotics, from experimental demonstrations toward real-world applications.
“Rather than offering simple spectacle, the event will show that robotics, AI, and new user interfaces are becoming increasingly embedded in people's daily lives,” said Leif Lindner, CEO of IFA Management. “It is an opportunity to experience future technologies in practice, rather than simply discuss them in abstract terms.”
Expectations for the global humanoid robot market are rising rapidly. Goldman Sachs estimates that the market could reach USD 38 billion, or approximately KRW 56 trillion, by 2035—more than six times its previous USD 6 billion forecast. The firm expects global humanoid robot shipments to reach 50,000 to 100,000 units this year, while unit prices could decline to between USD 15,000 and USD 20,000.
