Humanoid robots compete at World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing

At the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, humanoid robots competed in 51 different events, including track and field, tennis, boxing, and football. The Tiangong Ultra robot achieved a notable milestone by completing a 100-meter dash in 8.64 seconds, surpassing Usain Bolt’s world record.

Despite these athletic achievements, the event highlighted significant technical hurdles. Some robots experienced mechanical failures, including instances of robots catching fire or collapsing during races. Manufacturers are currently addressing challenges related to battery limitations and the high energy demands of onboard AI computing. To mitigate these issues, developers are exploring the use of 5G advanced networks to shift processing to the cloud.

Experts note that while robots are showing progress in predictable environments like running tracks, they still struggle with complex, unstructured tasks essential for domestic life, such as folding laundry. Handling soft, constantly changing materials like fabric remains a major obstacle for current robotic systems.