Upgrading Your Humanoid Robot: Parts, Software & Improvements

Whether you’ve just unboxed your first humanoid robot or you’ve been living with one for months, there comes a point where you start wondering: can I make it better? The good news is that most humanoid robots on the UK market today support some form of upgrading — from simple software updates to genuine hardware swaps. In this guide, we walk you through every avenue for improving your robot’s capabilities, extending its lifespan, and getting more value from your investment.

Software updates: the easiest upgrade you can make

Before spending a penny on physical parts, start with software. Most humanoid robots receive over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates that can dramatically improve performance, fix bugs, and even unlock entirely new features.

How OTA firmware updates work. Your robot connects to the manufacturer’s servers via your home Wi-Fi and downloads the latest firmware package. Models like the Unitree G1 and 1X NEO check for updates automatically, though we recommend verifying manually at least once a month. You’ll typically find the option under Settings > System > Firmware in the companion app.

Companion app updates are equally important. The app on your phone or tablet acts as the control centre for your robot, and manufacturers frequently push improvements to navigation controls, scheduling features, and diagnostic tools. Enable auto-updates in your device’s app store to ensure you’re always running the latest version.

How to check your current version. Open your robot’s companion app, navigate to Device Info or About, and compare the displayed firmware version against the latest release on the manufacturer’s website. If you’re behind, trigger a manual update and keep your robot plugged into its charger during the process — interrupted firmware updates can cause serious problems. For a deeper dive into keeping your robot’s software healthy, see our maintenance guide.

Hardware upgrades: what you can actually swap

Hardware upgradability varies considerably between models, but several categories of upgrade are becoming standard across the market.

Replacement hands and grippers. Some robots ship with general-purpose grippers that work adequately for most tasks but lack the dexterity needed for finer manipulation. Upgraded hands with articulated fingers or softer silicone pads can improve object handling. The Unitree G1, for example, supports swappable end-effectors, and third-party options are beginning to appear from specialist robotics suppliers.

Upgraded sensors. Better LiDAR modules, higher-resolution cameras, and improved depth sensors can enhance your robot’s spatial awareness and obstacle avoidance. Not every model supports sensor swaps — check your manufacturer’s documentation before purchasing. Our features explained guide covers what each sensor type does and why it matters.

Larger batteries. Battery life remains one of the biggest limitations of home humanoid robots. Where supported, an extended battery pack can add 30–60 minutes of active operation time. Always use manufacturer-approved batteries; third-party cells of unknown provenance can pose safety risks and will almost certainly void your warranty.

Accessories worth considering

Not every improvement requires cracking open your robot’s chassis. A range of accessories can protect your investment and make daily life with your robot more convenient.

Protective cases and bumper kits — ideal if your robot operates around furniture edges or in households with young children. Silicone bumper kits absorb minor impacts and prevent cosmetic scratches.
Carrying bags and transport cases — if you take your robot between locations (perhaps between home and a workshop, or to a community meetup), a padded transport bag is essential. Hard-shell cases are available for models like the Bumi and NEO.
Spare charging docks — having a second dock in another room means your robot can top up wherever it finishes a task, rather than navigating back to a single charging point.
Replacement feet and treads — these are wear items. If your robot operates on hard floors daily, expect to replace foot pads or tread surfaces every 12–18 months. Keep spares on hand so you’re not waiting on delivery when grip starts to deteriorate.

Third-party modifications and community mods

One of the most exciting developments in home robotics is the growing community of makers and tinkerers who share modifications, 3D-printable parts, and custom software.

Community mods range from simple cosmetic shells (giving your robot a unique appearance) to functional upgrades like improved cable management brackets, tool-holding attachments, and sensor mounts. Forums, Discord servers, and GitHub repositories dedicated to specific robot models are the best places to discover what’s available.

3D-printed parts have become particularly popular. If you own a 3D printer — or know someone who does — you can download STL files for custom grippers, protective covers, camera mounts, and storage trays designed to clip onto your robot. Communities around the Unitree G1 and 1X NEO are especially active in this space. If you’re comfortable with basic programming, our beginner’s programming guide can help you write custom behaviours to complement your hardware mods.

A word of caution: third-party modifications are not tested or endorsed by manufacturers. They may affect your robot’s balance, thermal management, or sensor accuracy. Always test modifications in a safe, open space before deploying them in your home.

When to upgrade versus buying new

This is the question we get asked most frequently, and the honest answer depends on your specific model and what you’re hoping to achieve.

Upgrade when the core platform is still capable and your frustrations are specific — shorter battery life, worn grippers, or missing a software feature that an update might deliver. Upgrades are almost always more cost-effective than replacement, and they reduce electronic waste.

Buy new when your robot’s fundamental hardware architecture cannot support the capabilities you need. If you want advanced autonomous navigation but your model lacks the sensor suite to support it, no amount of tinkering will bridge that gap. Similarly, if your robot is more than three to four years old and the manufacturer has ended software support, a newer model will serve you far better. Our comparison of the best humanoid robots for UK homes can help you evaluate whether a newer model is worth the switch.

Upgrade paths by model

Not all robots are created equal when it comes to upgradability. Here’s a realistic overview of what’s possible with the most popular models in the UK market.

Bumi — upgrade options are limited. Bumi is designed as a self-contained unit with minimal user-serviceable components. You can replace worn feet and update software, but hardware modifications are not officially supported and the chassis is difficult to open without specialist tools.

Agibot R1 — the R1 has attracted a small but dedicated community of modders. Replacement grippers are available, and several community members have shared 3D-printable sensor mounts. Official upgrade parts are scarce, but the R1’s relatively open mechanical design makes it more modification-friendly than the Bumi.

Unitree G1 — the G1 offers the most robust upgrade path of any model currently available. Its SDK allows for deep software customisation, swappable end-effectors are part of the official accessory line, and Unitree has signalled that additional hardware modules (including enhanced sensor packages) will be released over time.

1X NEO — NEO’s strengths lie in software. Regular OTA updates have consistently added new capabilities since launch, and the companion app is among the most feature-rich on the market. Hardware upgrades are more limited, though replacement batteries and foot pads are available through official channels.

Costs of common upgrades

To help you budget, here are typical price ranges for the most common upgrades available in the UK:

Replacement grippers or hands: £80–£250, depending on complexity and model compatibility
Extended battery packs: £120–£300 for manufacturer-approved units
Sensor upgrades (cameras, LiDAR modules): £150–£400
Protective bumper kits: £25–£60
Spare charging docks: £50–£120
Replacement feet or treads: £15–£40 per set
3D-printed community parts: typically free to download (plus your printing costs, roughly £2–£10 in filament per part)

Prices vary by model and supplier, and we recommend checking with UK-based robotics retailers for the latest availability.

Warranty implications of modifications

This is critical: any hardware modification not explicitly authorised by the manufacturer may void your warranty. Before you pick up a screwdriver, read the warranty terms carefully. Our warranty and support guide covers this topic in detail, but the key points are:

Software updates delivered through official channels will never void your warranty.
Manufacturer-sold accessories and replacement parts are safe to install.
Third-party hardware modifications, including 3D-printed parts that attach to internal mounting points, are likely to void coverage.
Some manufacturers offer an “enthusiast” or “developer” warranty tier that permits modifications — check whether yours does.

If your robot is still under warranty and you’re itching to modify it, consider waiting until the coverage period expires or purchasing an extended warranty that accounts for your plans.

Future-proofing your investment

The humanoid robotics market is evolving rapidly, and no purchase is truly future-proof. However, you can make smarter decisions that extend the useful life of your robot:

Choose models with active SDK and developer support. Robots with open development platforms tend to receive community-driven improvements long after the manufacturer moves on.
Prioritise software-upgradable models. A robot that gains new skills through OTA updates will age far more gracefully than one that ships with a fixed feature set.
Invest in quality accessories early. A protective case purchased on day one prevents the cosmetic and structural damage that accelerates obsolescence.
Stay engaged with the community. Joining forums and user groups keeps you informed about new modifications, upcoming updates, and common issues before they affect you.

UK suppliers for parts and accessories

Finding robot parts and accessories in the UK can be challenging, as much of the market is still US or China-focused. Here are some reliable options:

Manufacturer direct stores — Unitree, 1X Technologies, and other manufacturers ship to the UK from their official online shops. Expect delivery times of one to three weeks and potential customs charges.
UK robotics retailers — specialist shops such as The Robot Lab, RobotShop (which ships to the UK), and Active Robots stock a growing range of compatible parts and accessories.
Amazon UK and eBay — useful for generic accessories like carrying cases, silicone bumpers, and charging cables, though always verify compatibility before purchasing.
3D printing services — if you don’t own a printer, UK-based services like 3D Hubs (now Hubs) or local makerspaces can print community-designed parts for a modest fee.
Community marketplaces — some UK robotics forums and Discord servers have buy/sell channels where members trade spare parts and unused accessories.

Making the most of what you have

Upgrading your humanoid robot doesn’t have to mean spending hundreds of pounds or voiding your warranty. Start with the basics — keep your firmware current, maintain your robot’s physical components, and explore the accessories that solve your specific pain points. When you’re ready for more ambitious modifications, the growing community of UK robot enthusiasts is an invaluable resource.

The most important upgrade of all is knowledge. The more you understand about your robot’s capabilities and limitations, the better positioned you are to make informed decisions about where to invest. And if you do decide it’s time for a new model entirely, you’ll be choosing from a position of experience rather than guesswork. ��