Unitree G1: prepare the first session without skipping checks
A Unitree G1 should not be switched on like a toy straight from its box. The first session is for checking the delivered variant, battery and controller, clear space and shutdown procedure before asking the robot to walk. Unitree's G1 manual describes separate routes for seated startup, supported startup, app connection and EDU debugging. This is a checklist for someone who actually owns a G1. It does not replace operator training or the manual supplied with the unit.
Identify the variant before following a tutorial
The ROBOLERO Unitree G1 model page describes the family, but configurations differ. Unitree's manual illustrates a 23-degree-of-freedom G1 and refers to other arrangements; its debug section explicitly applies to EDU models. Check the label, delivered documentation, fitted hands, firmware and controller before copying a button combination from a video. Optional hands and development access cannot be inferred from “G1” on the box. MotorTrend reports that a base unit bought by Munro needed software updates before use. That is one documented case, not a diagnosis of every G1. If an accessory differs from the order, pause the trial and ask the seller.
| Check | What to verify | Stop when |
|---|---|---|
| Variant | G1 configuration, hands, firmware and matching manual | A tutorial is for EDU but your unit is base |
| Power | Charged battery and controller, intact connectors | A pack is damaged, hot or unidentified |
| Area | Dry, stable floor and clear space | Water, crowds, obstacles or unsuitable flooring |
| Control | Operator understands connection and stopping | The robot does not respond as expected |
Prepare the place and a responsible operator
The official manual says the G1 is neither waterproof nor dustproof and must remain in view. It specifies at least two metres between the robot and obstacles, complex terrain, crowds or water. For a private test choose a level, dry, clear floor; move children, pets and fragile objects away. Do not make the first trial on gravel, wet ground or beside stairs. One operator should know the braking or stopping method for this version. A helper may assist without entering the movement area. A demonstration video is not a safety procedure.
Before power-on, visually inspect joints, cables, feet, fasteners and air inlets. The manual also asks the user to check for water, sand or other foreign material, to charge the battery and controller module and to fit any protective bracket correctly. If you find damage, record it and contact support. Restarting cannot repair a connector or joint.
Startup, connection and a first trial
Unitree describes more than one way to start the G1. One uses a seated position with arms and legs resting naturally; another uses a support. Follow only the route suitable for the variant and accessories actually present, using the original manual step by step. Check battery orientation and mechanical locking before power-on. If the battery will not seat without force, do not force it. Support the machine as the instructions require, rather than holding its hands or head.
Unitree presents the Explore app for viewing status, temperature and alerts, with separate tutorials for startup, network setup, controller connection and movement. Install the app through the channel Unitree specifies for your region, then compare its status with the physical machine. Do not launch calibration, joint tuning or EDU debug simply to see what happens. Those are maintenance functions, not universal first-start steps. Begin with a brief, continuously supervised session and conservative movement only after understanding the controller and stop response.
What the video actually shows
The Robotlar distributor video shows a training session with a real G1. It helps show the robot's size and the setting for guided operation. It does not establish that every unit has identical hands, software or button sequence. Robotlar sells robots; the recording is an attributed commercial demonstration, not an independent ROBOLERO test. The written procedure remains the Unitree manual version that matches your unit.
Shutdown and a practical decision
Know how to end the session before starting it. The manual has separate sections for shutdown and packing. Follow the sequence for your actual configuration, wait until the robot is stable and handle its battery and charger according to their specific instructions. Never swap a pack while the machine is moving, and do not use an unverified charger. Record the variant, firmware, app alerts and any unusual behaviour; support will need those details.
The practical decision is simple: without enough space, support, training or a clear stop method, postpone the trial. If everything matches the manual, use a short, observable session and do not attribute capabilities from another configuration to your G1. For purchase costs and variant differences, see the G1 page and the available humanoids guide.