The Future of Intelligence

Author: Alexis Waltz

Illustrator: Antimimosa

At IFA 2025, one thing is clear: household robots have grown up. They take centre stage in one of this year’s main themes: “Future of Intelligence – Smarter Tech. Smarter Lives.” The focus is on technologies that aim to make everyday life easier through AI and automation – not as a gimmick, but as serious support.

“Consumer robotics has existed for over two decades – the first robot vacuum cleaners entered the market in the early 2000s,” explains Dr. Sara Warneke, Managing Director of IFA organiser GFU. “What’s new is the rapid development in artificial intelligence over the past three years. This will bring robotics much deeper into everyday life – providing real help in the home and beyond.” This new generation is exemplified by companies such as Neura Robotics, Alpha Robotics or Unitree. Thanks to modern sensors and AI-based learning systems, these devices are evolving into everyday assistants with increasingly advanced capabilities. Their use is no longer limited to the household – robotics is also becoming more prominent in healthcare, logistics, industry and retail.

The Robotics Dilemma

But with progress comes new questions: where does assistance end and dependency begin? When does helpfulness turn into paternalism? 

A recent consumer study on household robotics, conducted with strategy consultants Oliver Wyman, provides insight into German consumers attitudes: 37% are open to robotics, 36% are more sceptical and about one-quarter remain undecided. Younger people and higher-income households tend to view these developments more positively. Older or lower-income groups often voice greater concerns – particularly around safety, data protection and loss of control. Personal experience also plays a role: those already receiving human help in the household or garden are generally more open to robotic assistance.

Trust Over Promises

“Acceptance doesn’t come from innovation alone – it stems from trust and practical benefits,” emphasises Warneke. “Manufacturers must show that their technologies are not only efficient but also safe, transparent and easy to understand.”

This is where European providers have a trust advantage – and a responsibility. According to the study, 69% of respondents could imagine buying a device from a European manufacturer, 52% would consider an international consumer electronics brand, but only 27% would trust an AI company, placing them at the bottom of the ranking.

Outlook at IFA 2025

This year, IFA offers a comprehensive look at the current landscape – and a glimpse into the future. On display are well-known manufacturers such as Ecovacs, Dreame, Cleanix Robotics, Bosch and Kärcher. Also featured are many start-ups and emerging companies such as Fengfutech or Roborock at IFA Next, showcasing bold ideas that hint at where robotics is headed as part of a smart, connected home.

Market Highlights

46%

billion Euros total robotics revenue in 2025, of which 37 billion Euros* in service robotics.

+9.5%

projected growth by 2029*

*Source: Statista

Outlook to The Future

How Asia is pushing innovation forward – 
in three snapshots

• In South Korea, a consortium including LG, Doosan, academic institutions and the public sector are developing a humanoid robot. By 2028, they expect to have a model featuring more than 50 joints and able to carry loads of up to 20 kilograms and reach speeds of 2.5 metres per second (around 9 km/h).

• At the University of Tokyo, a research team has developed a ‘living skin’ for robots. Based on a gel matrix with collagen, it replicates both the epidermis and dermis and can self-heal when damaged – similar to human tissue.

• In China, AI-powered physical systems are on the rise: drones, intelligent waste robots and humanoid reception and delivery bots are being developed to optimise urban logistics, security and service infrastructure.

Explore at IFA

Select featured exhibitors, panels, workshops and more: 

• Arpobot
• Bosch
• Dreame
• Ecovacs
• Kärcher
• Narwal
• Neura Robotics
• Realbotix
• Alpha Robotics

Programme Highlights:

• Scene Setter: The Future of Intelligence – WGSN
  6 Sept, 10:45, Dream Stage
• Neura Robotics: Keynote & Demo – NEURA Robotics
  6 Sept, 11:45, Dream Stage
• Robots for Human Interaction – Realbotix
  7 Sept, 12:15, Dream Stage