Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Robot 'Lightning' Breaks Half Marathon Record at State Council Press Conference
At a recent press conference, the Honor 'Lightning' robot achieved a remarkable feat by completing a half marathon in just 50 minutes and 26 seconds, setting a new benchmark that surpasses human records. Developed by Honor's engineering team, this advanced humanoid robot incorporates cutting-edge technology, including self-developed joint modules and a sophisticated liquid cooling system. The team's accomplishment highlights significant advancements in humanoid robotics and reflects their commitment to exploring practical applications across various sectors. This milestone marks a crucial moment in the evolution of robot technology, showcasing the potential for future innovations.
Humanoid Robots AI Robotics Innovation Marathon Technology
50 Minutes and 26 Seconds! Humanoid Robot Breaks Half Marathon World Record, What Changes Will the Industry Face?
On April 19, a humanoid robot named 'Lightning' made headlines in Beijing by winning a half marathon, completing the race in an impressive 50 minutes and 26 seconds, thus breaking the previous human record. This remarkable achievement highlights the rapid advancements in robotic technology, particularly in hardware engineering and autonomous navigation. The event not only underscores the potential of robotics in athletic performance but also signifies a transformative moment for the industry, showcasing how far technology has come in mimicking human capabilities.
Humanoid Robots Marathon Technology Robotics Engineering Autonomous Navigation
When Robots Run a Marathon, the Race for Technology Has Just Begun
On April 19, a groundbreaking half marathon in Beijing featured the participation of over 300 humanoid robots, demonstrating significant advancements in robotics technology. Among the highlights of the event was a remote-controlled robot cameraman that captured the race from a distance of 1,200 kilometers, showcasing the innovative potential of remote operation in the field. This event not only illustrated the capabilities of modern robotics but also sparked discussions about the future applications of such technologies in various sectors. The successful execution of this marathon marks a pivotal moment in the integration of robotics into real-world scenarios, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automation and remote control.
Humanoid Robots Remote Operation Robot Technology Marathon Robotics
Marathon Limits Tested! How Feikuo Technology's 'Beyond Visual Range Remote Control System' Enables Robot Journalists to Live Stream While Running
The 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Half Marathon is set to showcase an innovative 'human-robot running' event, featuring 12,000 human participants alongside more than 300 humanoid robots. Scheduled to take place in Yizhuang, Beijing, this unique race aims to blend technology with athleticism, highlighting advancements in robotics and their integration into sports. Feikuo Technology will debut the world's first media live-streaming robot at the event, which employs cutting-edge remote control technology to deliver real-time race coverage and conduct interviews with participants. This initiative not only enhances the spectator experience but also demonstrates the potential of robotics in media and event broadcasting. The marathon is expected to attract significant attention, emphasizing the growing intersection of technology and traditional sports, and showcasing how innovation can enhance public engagement in athletic events.
Humanoid Robots Remote Control Technology Live Streaming Marathon Events
Beijing Humanoid Holds Robot Half Marathon Cooperation Delivery Ceremony to Explore the Limits of Embodied Intelligent Technology with Open Source Ecology
The Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center, designated as China's "national team" for embodied intelligent robots, is spearheading advancements in core technologies and developing an independent industrial ecosystem. Since its establishment, the center has focused on aligning with national strategies to enhance China's global competitiveness. Recently, it inaugurated a data and training base for embodied intelligent robots, marking a pivotal step beyond physical capabilities. This initiative aims to position China as a leader in data strategy within the emerging field of embodied intelligence. The center is set to provide extensive, high-quality data infrastructure essential for the industry, while also leading the creation of China's first standards for data collection in this domain. By offering specialized services and generating valuable data, the center is poised to facilitate the integration of humanoid robots into various sectors and households. This effort is expected to accelerate the development of new productive forces and foster technological self-reliance in China. As the landscape of artificial intelligence evolves from "perceptual intelligence" to "embodied intelligence," the demand for high-quality data becomes increasingly critical to drive innovation and growth in the sector.
Robotics Automation AI
Robots pour cocktails and run marathons, but still can't multitask
Despite advancements in technology, humanoid robots remain limited in their ability to perform a wide range of tasks on command, according to recent assessments. While these robots can execute specific activities such as mixing cocktails, running marathons, and folding laundry, their overall versatility in the workforce is still far from realization. This evaluation highlights the gap between marketing claims and the current capabilities of robotic systems as of October 2023. The ongoing development in robotics aims to enhance their functionality, but significant challenges remain before they can effectively take on diverse job roles in various sectors.
Robotics
The Secret to Marathon-Winning Humanoid Robots
On April 19, 2026, the Honor Lightning humanoid robot set a remarkable record by completing a half-marathon in just 50 minutes and 26 seconds, surpassing the previous human world record by seven minutes and outperforming the best robot time from 2025 by nearly two hours. This achievement has sparked interest in the technology behind its performance, particularly in comparison to competitors like Unitree, which struggled with overheating issues during the race. The Lightning's success can be attributed to its innovative design, particularly its advanced liquid cooling system that prevents overheating during prolonged exertion. Unlike traditional air cooling methods, the robot utilizes capillary-like liquid cooling pipes that circulate over four liters of coolant per minute through its motors, allowing it to maintain optimal performance without succumbing to heat-related limitations. While the robot's motor specifications remain undisclosed, its engineering emphasizes an optimal gear ratio of 45:1, which balances torque and speed effectively for running. This design contrasts with other humanoid robots, which may be optimized for walking but struggle with the demands of running, resulting in higher power consumption and inefficiencies. Honor's achievement highlights not only the potential of humanoid robots in athletic endeavors but also the engineering trade-offs necessary for different tasks. While the Lightning excels in speed, it may not be as versatile for other applications, underscoring the importance of targeted engineering in robotics. The event has reignited discussions about the capabilities of machines versus humans, emphasizing that comparisons between the two should be approached with caution, as their strengths and limitations differ significantly.
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A Marathon Valued at 6 Billion: Countdown to the 2026 Humanoid Half Marathon in Beijing
The 2026 Humanoid Robot Half Marathon is scheduled to take place in Beijing, where humanoid robots will compete in a challenging 21.0975 km race. This event aims to highlight the technological advancements in robotics and serves as a testament to China's growing prominence in the humanoid robotics sector. By showcasing these innovations, the marathon not only entertains but also positions China as a leader in the field, reflecting the nation's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and robotics.
Humanoid Robots Marathon Robotics AI Technology Robotics Competitions
Over 70 Robot Teams Participate in Night Run, Honor of Honor Technology Joins the Race
In a groundbreaking event, more than 70 teams of humanoid robots took part in a night marathon test in Beijing, simulating various racing conditions in preparation for the official competition set for April 19. This year's event marked a notable increase in participation, with teams from around the world showcasing significant advancements in autonomous navigation technology. The marathon aimed to evaluate the robots' performance and adaptability in diverse environments, highlighting the rapid evolution of robotics and its potential applications in real-world scenarios.
Humanoid Robots Marathon Robotics Autonomous Navigation Robot Competitions
Leading the Way: Five Key Highlights of the 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Humanoid Robot Half Marathon
The 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Humanoid Robot Half Marathon is poised to be a groundbreaking event, featuring over 300 robots from more than 100 teams. Scheduled to take place in Yizhuang, Beijing, this year's competition will focus on the theme of autonomous navigation, showcasing the latest advancements in robotics technology. Participants will demonstrate remarkable speeds, approaching those of human runners, underscoring significant progress in embodied intelligence. This event not only highlights the growing scale of robotic competitions but also reflects the rapid evolution of technology in the field.
Humanoid Robots Autonomous Navigation Robot Competitions AI Technology
TianGong's 'Double Champion': From Marathon Victory to Warrior Challenge Triumph, Achieving More Than Just Leg Strength
Beijing's TianGong 3.0 humanoid robot has achieved a remarkable victory at the inaugural Robot Warrior Challenge, demonstrating its advanced autonomous navigation skills in complex environments. This triumph builds on its earlier success in a marathon event, highlighting a significant evolution from basic mobility to practical applications in real-world situations. The competition showcased cutting-edge robotics technology and emphasized the potential for humanoid robots to perform tasks that require adaptability and problem-solving in dynamic settings.
Humanoid Robots Robotics Competitions AI Autonomous Navigation
After the Half Marathon, the 'Olympics' of Humanoid Robots is Coming
On April 19, more than 300 humanoid robots participated in a half marathon in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in robotic capabilities. This event served as a precursor to the second World Humanoid Robot Games, scheduled to take place from August 22 to 26. The upcoming games will introduce enhanced competitions that emphasize autonomy, dexterity, and practicality, highlighting the robots' advanced functionalities in real-world applications. The initiative aims to demonstrate the progress in robotics technology and its potential impact on various industries.
Humanoid Robots Robotics Competitions AI Technology Autonomous Systems
Why Are Robot Marathons Getting Stronger? This Component May Be Key
In a groundbreaking display of technological innovation, the recent humanoid robot half marathon held in Beijing featured significant advancements in autonomous navigation. The event saw participation from various teams, with 40% of them utilizing sophisticated sensor systems to enhance their robots' performance. Central to this progress was the implementation of six-dimensional force sensors, which played a crucial role in allowing the robots to navigate independently and effectively in real-world conditions. This competition not only showcased the capabilities of modern robotics but also underscored the importance of sensor technology in the development of autonomous machines.
Humanoid Robots Sensors Autonomous Navigation Robotics Technology
Robots can run a marathon and play ping pong. But will they ever achieve true sporting greatness?
A humanoid robot has garnered international attention after successfully completing a half-marathon, surpassing the existing human world record. This remarkable achievement highlights advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, showcasing the potential of machines in athletic performance. In a separate but equally impressive event, an AI-driven robot triumphed over a top human player in table tennis, demonstrating its superior speed and consistency. These developments, occurring in late 2023, underscore the rapid progress in technology and its implications for sports and competition, raising questions about the future of human versus machine in athletic endeavors.
Robotics
Amap debuts quadruped robot Tutu at Beijing humanoid half-marathon
Amap, the mapping platform under Alibaba, introduced its innovative quadruped robot named Tutu during the 2026 Beijing E-Town Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon. This event showcased Tutu's capabilities in assisting visually impaired individuals by navigating complex environments autonomously, without the need for preset routes or remote control. Demonstrations at the marathon highlighted the robot's ability to maneuver through crowds and avoid obstacles effectively. Amap aims to enhance mobility and independence for visually impaired users with this advanced technology, marking a significant step forward in assistive robotics.
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Honor’s humanoid robot breaks human half marathon record in 50min 26sec
In a groundbreaking achievement, Honor's humanoid robot, known as "Flash," clinched victory at the Beijing Yizhuang Humanoid Robot Half Marathon on Sunday. Completing the 21.0975-kilometer course in an impressive time of 50 minutes and 26 seconds, Flash not only secured the championship but also set a new record, surpassing the previous human half marathon world record of 56 minutes and 42 seconds. The event, which showcased advanced robotic technology, featured a challenging course with diverse terrains, highlighting the capabilities of modern robotics in athletic performance. This milestone underscores the rapid advancements in robotics and their potential to outperform human athletes in specific tasks.
News Feed
2026 Humanoid Robot Half Marathon: Over 300 Robots Race While a 'Robot Cameraman' Live Streams the Event
On April 19, the 2026 Humanoid Robot Half Marathon took place in Beijing, attracting over 300 competitors showcasing a variety of robotic designs. The event highlighted significant advancements in technology, particularly with a remote-controlled 'robot cameraman' that operated seamlessly from a distance of 1200 kilometers. This innovation demonstrated the potential for near-zero latency in remote operations, underscoring the rapid progress in robotics and remote control technology. The marathon not only provided a platform for competition but also served as a testament to the evolving capabilities of humanoid robots in both performance and technological integration.
Humanoid Robots Remote Control Technology AI Live Streaming Robotics
Honor Triumphs! Humanoid Robot Wins Half Marathon, Outpacing Humans by Seven Minutes?
In a groundbreaking achievement for robotics, the humanoid robot named 'Lightning,' developed by Honor's team, completed a half marathon in an impressive time of 50 minutes and 26 seconds, setting a new world record that surpasses the previous mark held by human male runners. This remarkable event took place recently, featuring a competitive field of 300 robots, all demonstrating the significant advancements in autonomous navigation technology that have been made over the past year. The success of 'Lightning' not only highlights the potential of robotic innovation but also raises questions about the future of robotics in athletic competitions.
Humanoid Robots Autonomous Navigation Marathon Robotics AI Technology
A humanoid robot sprints past the human half-marathon world record in Beijing race
A humanoid robot made headlines in Beijing on Sunday by winning a half-marathon race, showcasing China's advancements in technology. The robot's performance surpassed the current world record for human runners, highlighting significant progress in robotics and artificial intelligence. This event not only demonstrates the capabilities of modern robotics but also reflects China's commitment to innovation in the field. The race attracted considerable attention, emphasizing the growing intersection of technology and athletics.
Robotics
Beijing Humanoid Half-Marathon: Honor Sweeps Podium as Robots Shatter Human World Record
The second annual Beijing Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon showcased remarkable advancements in robotic technology, with Honor's "Lightning" model setting a new benchmark by exceeding the human world record. This event, which featured 300 competing robots, highlighted the rapid evolution of humanoid robotics in China. In a contrasting display of innovation, Tesla chose to present its Optimus robot at the Boston Marathon, albeit away from the competitive arena. The juxtaposition of these two events underscores the growing interest and investment in robotics, as companies strive to push the boundaries of performance and functionality in humanoid machines.
Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center Unitree Robotics Honor China
Winner of Beijing robot half-marathon smashes human world record by 6 minutes
In a remarkable demonstration of technological advancement, a robot named Lightning won a half-marathon in Beijing on Sunday, setting a new record by finishing in 50 minutes and 26 seconds. This achievement surpasses the previous human world record of 57 minutes and 20 seconds, held by Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo, by over six minutes. Developed by Honor, a Chinese smartphone and gadget company that entered the robotics sector just last year, Lightning's performance highlights the rapid evolution of robotics and artificial intelligence. The event not only showcases the capabilities of modern technology but also raises questions about the future of competitive sports as machines increasingly outperform human athletes.
Groundbreaking: The World's First Open-Source Humanoid Robot Marathon Navigation System!
At the inaugural Humanoid Robot Games, a groundbreaking event in the robotics industry, a team introduced Marathongo, the world's first open-source navigation system designed for humanoid robots. This innovative technology enables robots to autonomously run a distance of 21 kilometers, showcasing a significant advancement in their capabilities. The event, held recently, highlights the rapid progress being made in robotics and the potential for future applications in various fields. By allowing robots to navigate independently, Marathongo represents a pivotal step toward enhancing the functionality and versatility of humanoid machines.
Humanoid Robots Autonomous Navigation Open Source Technology Robotics Innovation
Embodied Intelligence Ultra: A Technological Breakthrough at the Beijing Half Marathon
The Embodied Intelligence Ultra humanoid robot has made headlines by autonomously completing a half marathon, demonstrating capabilities that exceed human speed limits. This significant achievement took place recently in China and highlights the country's progress in the field of embodied intelligence. The event served not only as a test of the robot's reliability and performance under challenging conditions but also as a demonstration of the potential applications for such technology across various industries. As advancements in robotics continue to evolve, this milestone marks a pivotal moment in the integration of artificial intelligence into practical, real-world scenarios.
Humanoid Robots Robotics Technology AI Autonomous Systems
Unitree Enters H1 in Beijing Marathon, Distances Itself from Independent Teams
Unitree Robotics has officially announced its participation in the upcoming Beijing Humanoid Robot Marathon, marking a significant shift after a year of distancing from third-party performance. The company is set to compete with its newly refined H1 robot, which is specifically engineered to achieve a sub-60-minute finish in the half-marathon event. This decision to enter the race reflects Unitree's commitment to showcasing its advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. The marathon is scheduled to take place in Beijing, with the event serving as a platform for innovation and competition among leading robotics developers. By entering the race, Unitree aims to demonstrate the capabilities of its technology and contribute to the growing field of humanoid robotics.
H1 Unitree Robotics China
Get Ready for the 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Humanoid Robot Half Marathon This Sunday!
The 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Humanoid Robot Half Marathon is scheduled for April 19, attracting more than 70 teams from around the globe. This year's competition has undergone substantial enhancements, emphasizing advancements in scale, technology, and competition regulations. The event aims to showcase innovations in autonomous navigation and robotics, reflecting the growing interest and development in the field. Participants will demonstrate their cutting-edge designs and capabilities, contributing to the evolution of humanoid robotics in a competitive setting.
Humanoid Robots Robot Competitions Autonomous Navigation AI Technology
Beijing’s Robot Marathon Scales Up: 300 Humanoids to Chase Autonomous Milestone
The 2026 Beijing Humanoid Half-Marathon is set to advance from its experimental debut last year, with over 300 robots already registered to participate. Scheduled to take place in Beijing, this event will introduce new regulations that promote autonomous navigation, reflecting a shift towards industrial standardization in robotic competitions. The initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of humanoid robots and establish a more structured framework for future events. By fostering innovation and competition among developers, the marathon seeks to push the boundaries of robotics technology while engaging audiences in this evolving field.
China
Beijing hosts world’s first half-marathon for humanoid robots, Tiangong Ultra wins in two hours 40 minutes
On Saturday, Beijing hosted the inaugural half-marathon exclusively for humanoid robots, marking a significant intersection of technology and athletics. The event featured 20 teams from various Chinese universities, enterprises, and research institutions, showcasing their robotic innovations. Alongside the robots, approximately 12,000 human runners participated, creating a unique atmosphere of competition and collaboration. The Tiangong Robot Ultra, one of the standout competitors, maintained a steady pace of seven to eight kilometers per hour, demonstrating the advancements in robotic mobility and endurance. This pioneering event not only highlighted the capabilities of humanoid robots but also aimed to inspire further research and development in robotics and artificial intelligence. The successful execution of the race reflects the growing interest in integrating technology into sports, paving the way for future competitions that blend human and robotic participation.
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Humanoids Hit the Pavement: Robots Compete in Beijing Half-Marathon
In a groundbreaking event, humanoid robots participated alongside human runners in the Beijing half-marathon for the first time. The competition took place recently, showcasing the advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. Tiangong Ultra emerged victorious in the robot category, completing the race in an impressive time of 2 hours and 40 minutes. However, the event also revealed the challenges that still confront robotic technology, as several other robots encountered difficulties, including falls and technical malfunctions. This inaugural participation underscores both the progress made in robotic capabilities and the obstacles that remain in achieving seamless integration of robots in competitive sports.
G1 Unitree Robotics xiaomi UBTECH Robotics humanoid-agility
Beijing Postpones Half Marathon Featuring Humanoid Runners Due to Wind Forecast
The Beijing Yizhuang Half Marathon, originally set for this Sunday, has been rescheduled to April 19 due to anticipated strong winds, according to an announcement made by the event organizers on Thursday. This year's marathon is particularly significant as it will feature humanoid robots competing alongside human runners for the first time, marking a unique blend of technology and athletics in the event.
Chinese Robot Beats Human Best Time in Half-Marathon, After a Stumble
Tech companies are advancing their efforts to address malfunctions in humanoid robots designed for running. These developments come as part of a broader initiative to enhance the reliability and performance of robotic systems, which have garnered significant attention for their potential applications in various fields, including athletics and rehabilitation. As of October 2023, engineers and researchers are implementing innovative solutions to rectify issues that have previously hindered the functionality of these robots. The ongoing work aims to improve not only the mechanical aspects but also the software algorithms that govern their movement. This progress is crucial as the demand for efficient and capable humanoid robots continues to grow, driven by the increasing interest in automation and robotics technology.
China to host first embodied intelligence robot games following robot marathon: report
Following a recent robot race in Beijing, Wuxi, located in eastern China, will host the Embodied Intelligence Robot Games from April 24 to 26. This event marks China’s inaugural major entry into the realm of robotic sports competitions. The games aim to showcase the latest advancements in embodied intelligence robotics and will feature various competitive segments, themed discussions, and a carnival atmosphere. This initiative highlights the growing interest and investment in robotics, reflecting the nation's commitment to innovation in technology and its potential applications in sports and entertainment.
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Japan Pioneered Humanoid Robots—Can It Now Catch China?
“In the future, the relationship between humans and robots will deepen, and the distinction between them will probably disappear.” This prediction, from one of the attendees at the recent Humanoids Summit in Tokyo, might have been unremarkable had it not come directly from an android that was first introduced to the world 20 years ago. Geminoid HI-6 is the sixth-generation of a robot originally designed in 2006. The mechanical twin of Osaka University professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, Geminoid HI-6 is now equipped with a large language model trained on Ishiguro’s own writings and interviews. It has advanced conversational skills and can even have a chat with its creator, an eerie spectacle. But at the Humanoids Summit, Geminoid was one of the few humanoid robots from Japan, the country that pioneered the form factor.While the event in Tokyo only had about 40 robots on display, Chinese systems outnumbered Japanese by roughly three to one. Some Japanese robotics firms were even using Chinese robots in their own technology demonstrations, something that would have been unthinkable in the recent past—one Japanese engineer described the situation as “sad.” The conference was a stark reminder of how Japan has ceded its early lead in humanoid robot development to overseas competitors, and the challenge it now faces to secure a place in an ecosystem increasingly dominated by general-purpose robots powered by AI. Twenty-five years ago, Japan was turning out groundbreaking humanoids that were showstopping in their abilities, but they were not commercialized as practical machines in any meaningful way. Heavily influenced by science fiction and lacking practical applications, they were mostly expensive technology demonstrations that were eventually mothballed. What Japan retains, however, is robotics design and know-how, which it must leverage to be a key player in the rapidly evolving humanoid ecosystem. Learning to Walk—Then Standing StillTo anyone who has seen recent videos of Chinese humanoids doing kung-fu and synchronized acrobatics, as well as half-marathon races, China’s remarkable progress in the field is nothing new. At the Humanoids Summit, Toyota showed a video of its latest basketball-playing robot, and Honda exhibited its latest robot hand, but the full-scale humanoids on the floor were mostly Chinese–the kid-size K1 machines from Booster Robotics of Beijing were dancing to Michael Jackson tunes. The full-scale G1 humanoid from Unitree Robotics of Hangzhou was also doing demos. “You cannot sell these bipedal systems in Japan for safety and compliance reasons,” says Shuichi Nagao, a frequent visitor to China as CTO of Omakase Robotics, a division of Zeals, a Japanese humanoid robot developer. Omakase was exhibiting a G1 modified with an external PC controller, a dextrous hand, a suction-cup manipulator and a sensor “hat” with an extra speaker, mic and camera. “In China, the government is pushing humanoid development. They didn’t have an industry 20 years ago. The people pushing it are young, in their 20s and 30s. It’s a really different mentality out there,” says Nagao. “Big players in Japan are still looking for use cases for humanoids. In China, they’re already doing mass production and reducing the cost, so other countries can’t compete with them anymore.”Another Japanese company showing off G1 bots was summit sponsor GMO AI & Robotics, a subsidiary of Japanese internet company GMO. It’s using the robots in partnership with Japan Airlines to load and unload cargo containers at Tokyo’s Haneda airport. The cargo project is a trial—like many other humanoid experiments—but the fact that Chinese machines have penetrated so far into Japan’s ecosystem upends a long history. In 1973, scientists at Waseda University in Tokyo built WABOT-1, considered the first full-scale humanoid robot and capable of slow bipedal locomotion, grasping objects and simple communication. It inspired Honda’s groundbreaking Asimo humanoid, but it was never commercialized. Asimo was eventually retired in 2022, the year ChatGPT was released. Two years later, Unitree’s G1 went on sale for US $16,000. China’s High Torque Technology Co. showed off its Mini Pi biped, customized with an anime-inspired head, at Humanoids Summit in Tokyo. The regular version is priced at $3,500. Tim HornyakSupply and DemandJapan’s development of humanoids happened before practical applications or widespread demand were in place, but bad timing is only part of the story—Japan also has a history of developing technologies that might appeal to domestic consumers but not necessarily those overseas. For example, decades after they first appeared, its highly engineered, multifunction toilets have only recently found a following abroad. Japan’s humanoid prowess was partly built on the back of its legendary industrial automation, yet even that stronghold has eroded. Ani Kelkar, a partner from McKinsey & Company in Boston who produces analytical reports about the robotics industry, told the summit audience that while Japan occupied the top spot in the world in manufacturing robot density (the number of multipurpose industrial robots in operation per 10,000 employees) from at least 1994 to 2009, it then slipped to second in 2014, third in 2019 and fifth in 2024. In that year, South Korea was at the top of the leaderboard with a robot density of 1,220 compared to Japan’s 446. The International Federation of Robotics estimates China now has the most operational industrial robots in the world, with around 2 million total units, approximately 4.5 times more than Japan. “The annual installation numbers are impressive too: 54 percent of all robots installed worldwide in 2024 were deployed in China,” the IFR said in a release in April 2026. “I think the loss of Japanese leadership is more to do with the rise of China as a manufacturing powerhouse including for sectors that Japan had high export levels,” Kelkar said in an email interview. “The recovery has not yet happened as Japan ‘missed’ the rapid acceleration in AI for robotics and is now playing catchup.”How Japan Can Adapt Kelkar believes Japan has a US $100 billion opportunity in general-purpose robotics, which are machines that can perform a wide variety of tasks, and it cannot rely on the slower-growing industrial robot market, which is centered on factory machines that do one simple and predictable task like welding car parts. He points to a McKinsey white paper suggesting that while Japan has much of the hardware and technology experience needed to support general purpose robot development, it must change its strategy to capture more share in AI, software, data collection and robotics platforms.Tetsuya Ogata is a professor of engineering and director of the Institute for AI and Robotics at Waseda University, the birthplace of humanoids in Japan. He briefed the summit on how a nonprofit he chairs, the AI Robot Association (AIRoA), is working with Toyota and other members to develop foundational technologies for collaborative use. For instance, AIRoA has collected some 80,000 hours of data on remote operation of mobile manipulators, and Ogata believes it’s the largest dataset of its kind. Using the data, it built and verified Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models, and it has also started data collection for dual-arm mobile manipulation. In an interview, Ogata acknowledged Japan’s struggle to find its place in the changing landscape. “The world of AI is inherently a game of scale,” says Ogata. “Therefore, Japan’s absolute prerequisite is to secure a competitive baseline of scale—in data, computing resources, and talent. Beyond that, what I consider most critical is a mindset shift: rather than trying to hoard scale within a single nation or company, we must grow stronger by collaborating with a diverse ecosystem of domestic and international players.” Specifically, this means creating a ‘collaborative domain’ to address data—the single biggest bottleneck—through industry-wide cooperation rather than data-siloing. By collectively nurturing a pre-competitive, shared data infrastructure and foundation model, individual companies can then compete on top of it with their own applications. “By offering this open ‘data ecosystem’ to the world, we can engage global players and establish a ‘third pole’ alongside the US and China,” says Ogata. “I believe this is how Japan can reclaim its global presence.”In 1999, Japan introduced the world’s first mobile internet services platform. But being first didn’t turn Japan into a smartphone manufacturing or design center—it’s now merely a supplier of parts to other countries who are leading the smartphone industry. If Japan can avoid a repeat of that experience and successfully deregulate, diversity, and commercialize its original humanoid dreams, it stands a better chance of influencing the direction of the industry and reaping billions in value. As automobiles and electronics were pillars of Japan’s industrial strategy in the last century, Japan could make humanoid robots one of its key value generators in the 21st century, an approach that would not only deliver economic benefits but give Japan greater clout in how the industry will evolve. Just like Japanese cars, electronics, and even toilets, Japanese humanoids could stand for craftsmanship and reliability. It’s a legacy that Japan can’t afford to give up.
Japan Robotics Humanoids Humanoid-robots
From Race Tracks to Living Rooms: Adapting Chip Solutions for Robotic Applications
Guomin Technology has unveiled its N32H series microcontroller unit (MCU), which is set to revolutionize a range of robotic applications, including marathon-running humanoid robots and smart home assistants. This innovative chip boasts advanced capabilities in real-time response, precision control, and energy management, making it effective in diverse environments. The article also addresses the challenges faced in creating dexterous robotic hands and emphasizes the reliability needed for industrial applications. With these advancements, Guomin Technology aims to enhance the functionality and efficiency of robotics, paving the way for more sophisticated and versatile robotic solutions.
Robotics MCU Technology AI Solutions Smart Home Devices
Qianwen Qianxun Collaborates to Launch the Industry's First 'Embodied Spatiotemporal Brain'
On April 19, the 2026 Beijing Yizhuang Half Marathon showcased a groundbreaking event where robots competed autonomously, highlighting advancements in technology. This innovative competition not only entertained spectators but also served as a platform for Qianxun Position to unveil its latest development, the 'Embodied Spatiotemporal Brain.' This new technology is designed to improve the autonomy and decision-making abilities of robots, with aspirations for systematic applications across various fields. The event marks a significant milestone in the integration of robotics into competitive sports and other practical scenarios.
Robotics Autonomous Systems AI Machine Learning
From phones to robots: China’s supply chain eyes next growth curve in humanoid
China's smartphone and electronics supply chain is pivoting to support the rapidly emerging humanoid robotics industry as component suppliers look for new growth opportunities amid a stagnating mobile market. This shift was highlighted when Honor's humanoid robot D1, a newcomer from the smartphone manufacturer, triumphed in a recent robot half-marathon in Beijing, outperforming established competitors like Unitree. Honor's entry into the humanoid robotics sector marks a significant crossover of expertise from mobile technology to robotics, reflecting the industry's potential for innovation and expansion.
Interview with 'Bean Foot' Creator Tongji Zihao: Why Does the Humanoid Industry Still Need Abstraction?
In a recent interview, Tongji Zihao shared insights into the viral phenomenon of his humanoid robot, 'Bean Foot,' which gained widespread attention during a marathon event. The robot's unique design and engaging presence captivated spectators, showcasing the potential of robotics to connect with the public. Zihao emphasized the significance of creativity and abstraction in the field, noting that even simple concepts can resonate deeply with audiences and foster a better understanding of technology. His remarks highlight the evolving relationship between innovative robotics and societal engagement, illustrating how imaginative ideas can bridge the gap between complex technology and everyday experiences.
Humanoid Robots Robotics Innovation 3D Printing AI Public Engagement
Chinese tech giants advance robotics push as sector sees rapid growth
Chinese technology giants, including Huawei's spin-off Honor and Alibaba Group, are leading the nation’s initiative to advance its robotics industry as part of Beijing's strategy to stimulate growth in this sector. In a notable achievement, Honor, which pivoted to robotics last year after its separation from Huawei in 2020, clinched the top prize at the second Beijing humanoid half-marathon held on Sunday. This victory was particularly significant as it outperformed established competitors like Unitree and X-Humanoid, highlighting Honor's rapid ascent in the robotics field. The event underscores the increasing emphasis on innovation and competition within China's burgeoning robotics landscape, driven by government support and investment in technology.
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
