China’s Humanoid Robots: Pioneering the Future of Embodied AI
Photo: Zhang Weilan/GT
A Rising Titan in Robotics
In 2024, China made waves in the robotics sector, introducing nearly 100 new embodied AI robotic products and claiming an impressive 70% share of the global market. Du Guangda, a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), underscored the vast potential for growth in China’s embodied AI robot industry during a recent industry forum in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province.
Unique Industrial Chain
China is acknowledged as the world’s sole nation possessing a fully integrated industrial chain for developing humanoid robots. This ecosystem includes everything from manufacturing to supply and sales services, allowing China to lead the charge in robotic innovation.
A Historical Perspective on Robotics
The journey of humanoid robots in China dates back to the late 1980s. Since then, a myriad of Chinese firms have employed an "integrated whole machine and self-research of key components" strategy to fast-track product development. According to Xiong Rong, a humanoid robot expert hailing from Zhejiang, this approach has been instrumental in achieving significant milestones.
Robotic Evolution: Performance and Functionality
Xiong remarked that contemporary Chinese humanoid robots now boast capabilities such as stable walking, running, and standing, rivaling those of international competitors. Such advancements can primarily be traced to significant improvements in motion control algorithms, which have greatly enhanced the robots’ balance and stability.
Manufacturing Brilliance and Core Components
Chinese firms are leveraging their robust manufacturing capabilities to assert dominance in two crucial areas: domestic production of essential components and the accumulation of training data for robots. This focus has positioned them uniquely in the global robotics landscape.
Milestones in Humanoid Robotics: A Year of Progress
The year 2024 has marked accelerated advancements in China’s humanoid robot technologies. AI-powered robots have made headlines by dancing alongside humans during the Spring Festival Gala and even finishing a half-marathon in Beijing, showcasing their versatility and agility.
Showing Skill and Precision
Du highlighted that the latest humanoid robots are not only capable of standing still but can walk steadily and run with speed. This enhanced performance underscores the strides made in robotic technology in a relatively short time.
The Sporty Side of Robots in Wuxi
The inaugural Embodied Artificial Intelligence Robot Games in Wuxi featured over 100 enterprises and tech innovation teams. Participants competed across ten categories, ranging from athletic pursuits like sprinting and off-road racing to practical applications such as material handling and indoor rescue scenarios.
Bridging Technology and Sports
This exciting event follows the successful first humanoid half-marathon held in Beijing, blending technology and sports in a groundbreaking way. Zhong Xiangyun, an industry observer, remarked that these events have further showcased the capabilities of AI robots, signaling a transition from experimental stages to mainstream production and application.
Spotlight on Atom: A Breakthrough Robot
One notable example is Atom, developed by Shenzhen-based Dobot Robotics. Labeled the world’s first full-size humanoid robot with "agile operation and straight-knee walking," Atom features a proprietary high-precision operating system and can execute various tasks—from assembling chocolate boxes to fetching milk and delivering flowers—all through voice commands.
Real-World Applications of Atom
Li Jiaxian, a representative from Dobot Robotics, pointed out that Atom serves primarily in industrial contexts, including automotive assembly preparation and pharmacy night shifts. By 2024, Dobot Robotics had already shipped over 80,000 collaborative robots to more than 80 countries, showcasing the global appeal of their innovations.
A Technical Milestone at the Forum
During the forum, Chen Ying, vice president and secretary-general of the Chinese Institute of Electronics, noted that the sports events serve as both a technical advancement review and a launchpad for an expansive industrial ecosystem. With AI models evolving rapidly, the potential market for embodied AI is set to soar, backed by intensified research and development efforts.
Looking Ahead: Market Potential
According to a report by Head Leopard Shanghai Research Institute, China’s embodied AI market was valued at 418.6 billion yuan (approximately $58 billion) in 2023. Projections suggest that this figure will rise to an impressive 632.8 billion yuan by 2027, propelled by ongoing breakthroughs in AI technology.
Building a Robust Ecosystem
As the groundwork for a comprehensive industrial ecosystem is laid, China’s commitment to advancing embodied AI and humanoid robotics shows no signs of slowing down. Various stakeholders, from government officials to industry leaders, continue to push for innovations that will solidify China’s global leadership in this transformative field.
A Perspective on Global Competition
While China currently holds the upper hand in the humanoid robotics arena, the international landscape remains competitive. Countries across the globe are ramping up their own efforts to develop this technology, leading to a race for innovation that will determine future leadership in the industry.
Investment in Human Resources and R&D
Investing in skilled labor and research and development is critical for sustaining this momentum. China’s universities and technical institutes are increasingly focusing on fostering talents who can contribute to advancements in AI and robotics.
An Ecosystem Rich with Opportunities
The thriving robotics industry not only benefits companies involved in production but also encourages entrepreneurship, creating an ecosystem rich in opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
As the world watches, China’s journey in humanoid robotics stands as a testimony to ambitious innovation and governmental support. With significant investments in technology and infrastructure, the nation’s projected growth in the embodied AI market is not just promising—it’s revolutionary. This trajectory positions China not merely as a participant in the global robotics arena but as a formidable leader paving the way for a future where humans and robots collaborate harmoniously across various domains.
