Humanoid Robot Localization: Donut Robotics Unveils 130cm Cinnamon Mini in 2026

Tokyo-based startup Donut Robotics has taken a significant step toward achieving humanoid robot localization in Japan with the unveiling of its new 'cinnamon mini' model at the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 exhibition. The robot, standing at approximately 130 centimeters, represents the company's strategic pivot toward developing domestically produced humanoid robots.

According to a press release distributed by PR TIMES on April 27, 2026, the cinnamon mini is a compact physical AI platform designed for versatility and accessibility. While the current prototype is based on a Chinese-manufactured chassis, Donut Robotics has confirmed it will soon publish a concrete roadmap for full Japanese localization of its humanoid robot line.

Donut Robotics' Vision for Humanoid Robot Localization

The company aims to achieve humanoid robot localization by replacing imported parts with domestically manufactured alternatives. Key areas of focus include motors, sensors, batteries, and control software. This strategy mirrors a broader trend in Japanese robotics: leveraging foreign hardware while developing proprietary software and components.

Strategic Pivot to Domestic Production

Donut Robotics' forthcoming localization roadmap is expected to outline steps for full Japanese production. Industry analysts suggest a phased approach over the next three to five years, with the final localized version meeting Japanese safety and quality standards while maintaining cost competitiveness.

Key Features of the 130cm Cinnamon Mini

The cinnamon mini's 130cm height makes it suitable for indoor environments, including homes, schools, and small businesses. The robot features advanced motion learning capabilities that allow it to acquire new behaviors by analyzing video footage—a technique called 'video-based action learning.'

Video-Based Action Learning

Donut Robotics demonstrated this capability at the SusHi Tech Tokyo event by having the cinnamon mini perform a dance routine. The company also announced a collaboration with the popular dance group 'New School Leaders' to further refine the robot's movement repertoire.

• Compact design for indoor use
• Advanced motion learning from video analysis
• Collaboration with dance group for movement refinement

'We are moving beyond pre-programmed motions,' a company spokesperson told attendees. 'Our goal is to create humanoid robots that can learn naturally from observing human actions, much like a child learns.'

Roadmap for Japanese Production and AI Learning

The announcement comes at a time when global interest in humanoid robots is surging, with applications ranging from elder care to manufacturing. Japanese companies, historically leaders in industrial robotics, are racing to establish a foothold in the emerging humanoid market.

Challenges and Opportunities

As the company moves toward full humanoid robot localization, it faces challenges common to the industry: supply chain constraints, high development costs, and the need for robust AI software. However, the compact form factor and learning capabilities of the cinnamon mini position it as a potential entry point for broader adoption.

Donut Robotics' cinnamon mini is currently available for enterprise pre-orders, with pricing to be announced alongside the localization roadmap. The SusHi Tech Tokyo exhibition continues through the end of April, with Donut Robotics offering live demonstrations of the cinnamon mini daily.

For more details, visit the official PR TIMES release. This humanoid robot localization effort represents a significant step for Japanese robotics, combining compact design with advanced AI learning to create a versatile platform for the future.