Humanoid robot shops for sneakers on NYC’s Fifth Avenue

Humanoid robot technology is making waves in urban settings, as demonstrated by a recent event in New York City where such an advanced machine entered a popular footwear outlet.

Onlookers on Fifth Avenue were captivated when the robot stepped into the Hoka shop to examine and even attempt to wear sneakers, creating a buzz that quickly spread online.

This robot, known as the Unitree R1, was not merely wandering aimlessly but participating in a cleverly orchestrated promotional activity for a new investment fund focused on artificial intelligence and robotics.

Bystanders were astonished as the device, adorned with KOID branding, interacted with the environment by taking photos with people, enjoying a street hot dog, and perusing the store’s inventory.

Unitree R1 humanoid robot at sneaker store  (KraneShares)

$5,900 Unitree R1 Humanoid Robot Proves Surprisingly Accessible

The Unitree R1 robot stands out for its relatively low cost of $5,900, making advanced robotics more attainable for research and educational purposes.

This pricing positions it as an affordable entry point into the world of robots, potentially democratizing access to cutting-edge technology for labs, universities, and innovators.

Unitree R1 humanoid robot ringing the Nasdaq opening bell  (RoboStore)

Humanoid Robot’s Journey: From Nasdaq to Fifth Avenue

The KOID robot originates from Unitree, a robotics company based in China, enhanced with programming from Stanford University’s OpenMind initiative.

Provided by RoboStore in Long Island, this machine had previously gained attention by participating in the ceremonial ringing of the Nasdaq opening bell earlier that week. While operated remotely for its Manhattan outing, the R1 model is designed for full autonomy and is already deployed in various academic and research settings.

The sneaker-shopping demonstration served as a key element in promoting the KraneShares Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index ETF, which debuted in June and has attracted approximately $28 million in assets. From an additional perspective, this highlights the increasing convergence of financial markets and technological innovation, where robot advancements are seen as lucrative investment opportunities amid growing interest in AI-driven solutions.

Unitree R1 humanoid robot at sneaker store (KraneShares)

Why This Humanoid Robot Matters in Today’s Tech Landscape

Beyond serving as an eye-catching spectacle, the Unitree R1 symbolize a broader evolution toward devices capable of navigating, engaging, and adjusting to human-centric spaces.

According to projections from Morgan Stanley’s Global Humanoid Model, the sector could expand to include up to 1 billion such robots, contributing an estimated $5 trillion in yearly economic value by 2050.

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Although this vision may appear distant, incidents like this robot’s public appearance illustrate the accelerating pace of development, offering a glimpse into a future where such technology becomes commonplace.

Adding another angle, this could foster discussions on ethical integration, ensuring humanoid robots enhance rather than disrupt societal norms.

Unitree R1 humanoid robot out and about in NYC  (RoboStore)

What Humanoid Robots Mean for Everyday Consumers

Observing a robot engaging in routine activities like shopping in a bustling city provides a foreshadowing of technologies that might soon assist in customer service, retail operations, or personal tasks.

Major corporations are pouring resources into humanoid robot development, blurring the distinction between gimmick and practical utility. If models like the Unitree R1 can adeptly handle real-life scenarios now, their potential in the coming years could transform daily interactions, from helping in stores to supporting households.

This perspective also raises considerations about job impacts in retail, emphasizing the need for workforce adaptation alongside technological progress.

Key Takeaways on the Rise of Humanoid Robots

While the sneaker-store visit by this robot may initially come across as a marketing ploy—and indeed it is—it also captures the essence of how AI-infused machinery is infiltrating routine existence. The pressing issue shifts from whether robots will appear in local communities to when they will become a standard feature, prompting society to prepare for this inevitable integration.

Disclaimer: This article synthesizes information from various reports as of August 17, 2025. Details are based on unverified accounts and may evolve with new developments.Readers are encouraged to consult original sources for the latest updates.