Beijing, Aug 16 (V7N) — China has launched the inaugural World Humanoid Robot Games, a three-day international competition aimed at showcasing advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics. Held at the National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing, the event features 280 teams from 16 countries, with over 500 humanoid robots participating in a wide range of challenges.

Robots are competing in traditional sports such as football, track and field, and table tennis, alongside robotics-specific tasks like medicine sorting, material handling, and cleaning operations. Participating teams include university researchers and private tech companies, with notable entries from Germany, Brazil, the United States, and China.

Despite frequent falls and malfunctions—such as robots collapsing mid-sprint or colliding on the football field—many machines demonstrated impressive coordination and resilience, often managing to stand up without human assistance. Spectators reacted with a mix of gasps and applause as robots attempted to navigate complex tasks under pressure.

Organizers said the event provides valuable opportunities to test and refine real-world robotic applications, especially in areas like industrial automation and collaborative assembly. The Games also reflect China’s broader ambition to become a global leader in robotics and artificial intelligence, amid increasing technological competition and demographic shifts at home.

Tickets for the event ranged from 128 to 580 yuan, drawing significant public interest and highlighting growing enthusiasm for robotics in both scientific and popular culture.

END/WD/SMA/