Xynova Unveils Flex 2: Ultra-Light 400g Robotic Hand with 12kg Payload and 23 Degrees of Freedom

Chinese robotics company Xynova has officially launched the Flex 2, its second-generation hybrid dexterous robotic hand designed specifically for humanoid robots and embodied AI systems. The announcement, made in mid-May 2026, positions the Flex 2 as one of the most advanced lightweight manipulators on the market today.

Weighing just 400 grams, the Flex 2 can grasp and hold objects weighing up to 12 kg in a single-hand grip (with a rated continuous load of 4 kg). It delivers human-like dexterity through a full 23 degrees of freedom (DOF) bionic configuration, combining cable-driven and direct-drive elements for both power and precision.

Key Technical Specifications

Agility & Speed: Millisecond-level hardware response time enables dynamic reflexes, including slip detection and adaptive force adjustment on contact. The hand can complete two full fist extensions per second.
Precision: Repeatability of ±0.1 mm and force control accuracy down to 0.05 N, allowing delicate manipulation of fragile objects or precise tool use.
Sensing & Intelligence: Multi-modal perception fusion with built-in slip sensors and a “human-like cerebellum” for real-time decision-making. The system supports compliant reflexes and shape-adaptive grasping.
Durability: Millions of open/close cycles, dustproof, drop-proof, impact-resistant, and equipped with full-range temperature control. The palm features a wear- and puncture-resistant surface with soft, replaceable skin and anti-pinch seams.

Xynova emphasizes that the Flex 2 redefines human-robot aesthetics and functionality — from visual similarity to tactile intelligence — making it suitable for real-world tasks in unstructured environments.

Fully In-House Development and Manufacturing

Xynova Unveils Flex 2: Ultra-Light 400g Robotic Hand with 12kg Payload and 23 Degrees of Freedom What truly sets Xynova apart is its vertical integration.

The company designs and produces all core hardware and software components internally, including:

Electric motors;
Reducers;
Roller screws;
Servo controllers;
Drivers.

Xynova also writes its own control algorithms and upper-level software with rich APIs for easy integration. The entire Flex 2 was developed by a dedicated R&D center of 40 specialists, more than 70% of whom hold advanced degrees.

This end-to-end control allows rapid iteration and customization for humanoid platforms.

Strategic Backing and Market Momentum

Xynova Unveils Flex 2: Ultra-Light 400g Robotic Hand with 12kg Payload and 23 Degrees of Freedom The launch comes with notable industry validation: Xiaomi participated in both Xynova’s angel round and Pre-A funding, signaling strong confidence in the technology. While no official integration with Xiaomi’s own robotics efforts has been announced, the investment underscores growing interest in dexterous hands — widely considered one of the hardest challenges in humanoid robotics.

Why Flex 2 Matters for Embodied AI

Xynova Unveils Flex 2: Ultra-Light 400g Robotic Hand with 12kg Payload and 23 Degrees of Freedom Most current robotic hands either sacrifice payload for lightness or lose dexterity when scaled for strength. The Flex 2 breaks that trade-off: it is light enough to mount on mobile humanoids without compromising balance, yet powerful and perceptive enough to handle real tools, delicate objects, and dynamic interactions.

With its open development ecosystem, the hand is expected to appeal to robotics labs, humanoid startups, and industrial automation teams looking to accelerate embodied AI capabilities.

Full details and technical specifications are available on the official Xynova website: xynova.com.cn/en.

The Flex 2 isn’t just another robotic gripper — it’s a serious step toward robots that can work alongside humans with the same natural dexterity and adaptability. Expect to see it powering the next wave of general-purpose humanoids in 2026 and beyond.