Humanoid robots grab limelight on global stage

Regular feature

In the United Arab Emirates, Chinese humanoid technologies have become a regular feature at major technology events. At GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai, one of the world's largest technology and artificial intelligence exhibitions, several Chinese firms showcased advanced models of humanoid robots.

At the Bridge Summit 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Chinese companies revealed a plan to deploy full-size humanoid robots in shopping malls and commercial facilities across the UAE this year.

At the Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2025 in Spain, Unitree demonstrated its AI-powered G1 humanoid robot, designed for assistance, to the Spanish market. Reports this year also indicate that units like the Unitree G1 are already available for purchase in Spain, with companies such as Invelon exploring their applications.

A report by Omdia last month said China leads the global humanoid robot industry, accounting for nearly nine out of 10 robots shipped worldwide, with more than 150 companies currently operating in the sector.

In the US, China's robotics drew attention at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January, where humanoid robots demonstrated dancing, interactive movements and object-handling skills.

Aaron Wang, vice-president of Viaim, a Chinese earbuds manufacturer, said their products are manufactured in China while the company sells its products mainly in the US. "We cooperate with our business partners in the US by using their technology to serve customers here," Wang told China Daily.

After the China Media Group broadcast of the Spring Festival Gala, comparisons of this year's and last year's kung fu dance performances by Chinese humanoid robots went viral on social media.

In 2025, the robots' movements appeared stiff and limited, while in 2026 they performed complex routines with smoother motion and greater coordination. "In just one year, they have evolved from robots to 'humans'," Tansu Yegen, an AI influencer, wrote on X while commenting on the video.

Yang Gao and Rena Li contributed to this story.

minluzhang@chinadailyusa.com