At CES 2025, German Bionic made headlines with the debut of its Apogee Ultra, a robotic exoskeleton the company claims to be the “world’s most powerful.” Designed for labor-intensive industries, the Apogee Ultra offers groundbreaking features, including up to 80 pounds of dynamic lift assistance. This allows a payload of 70 pounds to feel as light as 9 to 11 pounds on the user’s lower back, significantly reducing strain.
But its capabilities go beyond lifting. The Apogee Ultra also assists with walking, making a 10-mile trek feel closer to eight, a feature especially beneficial for workers who spend long hours on their feet. Industries like construction, baggage handling, and even healthcare—where nurses often face physical demands—are prime targets for this technology.
Aiding Human Labor, Not Replacing It
The Apogee Ultra aligns with the broader mission of robotic exoskeletons: enhancing human labor rather than replacing it. By enabling workers to handle more demanding tasks with reduced physical strain, businesses can improve productivity while potentially requiring fewer employees for labor-intensive jobs.
Safety and health benefits are also central to the system’s design. German Bionic reports that workplaces using its exoskeletons have seen a 31% reduction in sick leave. This improvement is attributed to the system’s ability to mitigate injury risks associated with repetitive or heavy lifting.
AI and Data-Driven Innovation
The Apogee Ultra’s performance is powered by AI, allowing it to adapt to the unique needs of individual users. The exoskeleton leverages vast amounts of real-world data collected from thousands of users to continuously refine its capabilities. Over-the-air updates ensure the system remains state-of-the-art, offering ongoing enhancements to its functionality.
Availability and Future Impact
The Apogee Ultra is now available through German Bionic’s official website, although specific pricing details remain undisclosed. By combining advanced AI with practical applications, this exoskeleton represents a significant step forward in the robotics field, promising to reshape industries and improve workplace safety on a global scale.