Honor, the smartphone brand, is expanding its ambitions beyond mobile devices and into robotics. The company will unveil its first consumer-grade humanoid robot at in Barcelona, marking a significant step for the Chinese manufacturer and positioning it as the first Chinese smartphone maker to enter this emerging segment. The robot is envisioned for applications in retail and home services, with capabilities ranging from product delivery to providing companionship.
Alongside the humanoid robot, Honor will also showcase its “ROBOT PHONE,” a concept device first teased at CES 2026. This innovative smartphone integrates a robotic arm with gimbal stabilization, designed to automatically frame shots and track subjects, effectively merging AI-powered imaging with physical movement. The ROBOT PHONE represents Honor’s broader strategy of integrating AI and robotics into its product ecosystem.
The move into robotics isn’t entirely unexpected. Honor has publicly signaled its commitment to an “AI Future,” and the MWC 2026 launch event is themed around this vision. The company’s strategy appears to be a deliberate pivot, leveraging its expertise in AI to create a new category of intelligent devices.
While details about the humanoid robot remain limited, Honor has indicated it will be a “service robot.” This suggests a focus on practical applications rather than purely entertainment or research. The potential for robots to assist with tasks like shopping and household chores is a key driver in the development of this technology. The company’s focus on service applications aligns with a growing trend in the robotics industry, where robots are increasingly being designed to augment human capabilities in everyday life.
The announcement comes amidst a wave of activity in the robotics space. Recent robot launches haven’t been without their challenges, however. A launch event for a robot from Russian brand Aidol in November 2025 saw the prototype malfunction and fall over on stage, highlighting the complexities of bringing humanoid robots to market. Honor will likely be hoping for a smoother debut at MWC 2026.
Honor’s initial focus appears to be on the Chinese market, with potential expansion into other parts of Asia and Europe. Historically, Honor has not prioritized the US market, and it’s unlikely the first-generation robot will be widely available there. This strategic approach allows the company to build its robotics expertise and refine its products in a controlled environment before potentially expanding to more competitive markets.
The ROBOT PHONE, while still a concept, offers a glimpse into Honor’s vision for the future of mobile photography. The robotic arm and gimbal system aim to overcome the limitations of traditional smartphone cameras, providing users with more stable and creative shooting options. The device is described as having a “super brain of AI” onboard, suggesting that the robotic arm is controlled by sophisticated algorithms that can intelligently track subjects and optimize image quality.
Beyond the robots, Honor will also be unveiling new smartphones, tablets, and laptops at MWC 2026. The lineup includes the Magic V6 foldable phone, the MagicPad tablet, and the MagicBook Pro laptop. These devices demonstrate Honor’s continued commitment to its core product categories while simultaneously exploring new opportunities in robotics and AI.
The entrance of a major smartphone manufacturer like Honor into the humanoid robotics market is a significant development. It signals a growing convergence between the mobile and robotics industries, driven by advancements in AI and machine learning. While the long-term impact of Honor’s foray into robotics remains to be seen, it’s clear that the company is positioning itself as a key player in the future of intelligent devices.
The success of these ventures will depend on several factors, including the robot’s capabilities, its price point, and its ability to address real-world needs. The challenges of developing and manufacturing humanoid robots are substantial, and Honor will need to overcome these hurdles to establish a foothold in the market. However, with its strong AI expertise and its commitment to innovation, Honor is well-positioned to make a significant contribution to the evolving landscape of robotics.
