<p>Small-scale robots are promising miniaturized devices in biomedicine. Thin-film self-assembly is a commonly used strategy to fabricate tubular small-scale robots. However, the existing methods have limitations like complex manufacturing processes and limited control of self-assembly behavior. Herein, we present a recently developed laser-guided self-assembly strategy that transforms platinum/gold bilayer thin films into three-dimensional tubular structures. These structures function as chemically actuated, asymmetrically designed small-scale swimmers. Micro-roll structures with customizable geometrical asymmetry are prepared through a precise laser-guided rolling process, in which the laser settings can digitally control the rolling behavior because of the point-to-point laser–material interaction. Furthermore, the as-fabricated micro-rolls could be directly peeled off the substrate and transferred to the target container by laser irradiation. The specially designed cone-like asymmetric platinum/gold micro-roll can swim forward in the hydrogen peroxide solution by ejecting bubbles from the large open end. The movement of small-scale swimmers in open water can be precisely controlled by adjusting their asymmetry, which is achieved through carefully designed laser scanning paths. The interactions of the asymmetric small-scale swimmers with various boundaries (both fixed and untethered) are systematically investigated and summarized. Micro-roll encapsulation with empty capsules can be integrated into the laser transfer process. The dissolution of capsules and release of small-scale swimmers in aqueous solutions are demonstrated. This research indicates the potential of the one-step laser-guided self-assembly and forward transfer method in manufacturing and encapsulating miniaturized devices.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>