Chinese tech companies wowed audiences with humanoid robots showcasing impressive skills like martial arts and zither playing. Meanwhile, Tesla’s robot, Optimus, stood quietly in the background. The contrast at the recent World Robot Conference in Beijing reflects a broader narrative of rapid innovation in China’s robotics industry.
Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has big dreams for Optimus. He envisions it as the ultimate household assistant. Musk believes this technology could eventually propel Tesla to a staggering $25 trillion valuation. Tesla plans to begin testing these humanoids in its factories next year, but the current capabilities of Optimus remain somewhat of a mystery.
On the other side of the globe, the World Robot Conference in Beijing became a showcase of China’s burgeoning prowess in robotics. With a record 27 humanoid robots debuting at the event, China is rapidly advancing in this field, reminiscent of its swift rise in the electric vehicle market. Significant investment and resources are now fueling the development of humanlike robots across the country.
Wei Cao, a partner at Lanchi Ventures, highlighted that over the past decade, China’s robotics industry has attracted more than 100 billion yuan ($14.01 billion) in investment. His firm alone manages 15 to 20 billion yuan in assets. Cao anticipates a major milestone in the next year or two—a commercially viable humanoid that can autonomously navigate manufacturing environments and prioritize tasks.
Cao explained that the next generation of robots will be capable of much more than just repetitive actions, like grabbing a soda can. Thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence, including contributions from OpenAI and Alibaba, these robots are increasingly adept at processing information and executing complex tasks.
Lanchi Ventures has invested in Agibot, a Shanghai-based humanoid startup founded in early 2023 by a former Huawei engineer. Just days before the World Robot Conference, Agibot unveiled five new robots, some of which are already available for preorder with a deposit of 5,000 yuan. These robots are designed to serve as sales assistants, gallery guides, and factory part pickers, with deliveries expected to begin as early as mid-October.
Also drawing attention was Stardust Intelligence, a Shenzhen-based startup launched in late 2022 by a former Tencent and Baidu robotics expert. Stardust’s Astribot S1, known for its shirt-folding and wine-pouring skills, was on display alongside other robots performing intricate tasks like martial arts, playing traditional instruments, and writing calligraphy. However, some of the robots’ movements were noticeably stiff, raising questions about whether they were being remotely controlled or acting autonomously.
Compared to the previous year, the World Robot Conference saw a significant increase in the number and variety of robot demonstrations, with many young people and students showing interest. Cao remarked that while Tesla and other U.S. companies may currently be one to two years ahead in robotic technology, China has a distinct advantage in its self-sufficiency, boasting more than 95% of the humanoid supply chain.
Regarding Tesla’s decision not to showcase Optimus in action at the conference, Cao suggested that the company’s existing promotional videos likely demonstrate its capabilities well enough. He also noted that Tesla may have chosen not to dedicate resources to live demonstrations. Tesla has yet to comment on this matter.
Jeff Burnstein, president of the U.S. Association for Advancing Automation (A3), also participated in the conference via a recorded video, where he showcased virtual demos of humanoid startups like Agility. Burnstein pointed out that while these are just demos, some companies have already progressed beyond pilot programs and begun practical applications of humanoids. A3 is set to host its humanoid conference in Tennessee on October 7.
In the world of humanoid robotics, many companies have focused on perfecting specific capabilities before attempting to replicate the full range of human abilities. For instance, Limx Dynamics, a Shenzhen-based company, recently introduced the P1, a research-focused robot that can balance on two legs, navigate stairs, and recover its balance when pushed. With backing from investors including Alibaba, Limx Dynamics recently demonstrated the P1’s ability to move objects in a warehouse and autonomously replan tasks if obstacles arise.
The World Robot Conference also featured a wide range of robotic components, from gears to robot hands, showcasing the building blocks of future humanoids.