The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word ROBOTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
O
B
O
T
S
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ROBOTS mean?
ROBOTS noun- A machine built to carry out some complex task or group of tasks by physically moving, especially one which can be programmed.
- An intelligent mechanical being designed to look like a human or other creature, and usually made from metal.
- A person who does not seem to have any emotions.
- A traffic light (from earlier robot policeman).
- A theodolite which follows the movements of a prism and can be used by a one-man crew.
- A style of dance popular in disco in which the dancer imitates the stiff movements of a stereotypical android robot.