During the 2024 World Robot Conference in Beijing, two humanoid robots were busy at work—one managing cash, the other busy in the kitchen. Within minutes, they produced a fresh, perfectly brewed cup of cappuccino.

This year, humanoid robots have made further strides in China, with a record 27 models at the event. At the entrance to the conference, the most human-like robots were on display, featuring lifelike skin, facial features, and the ability to engage in conversations with visitors. While their movements still appear somewhat mechanical, their vast knowledge base allowed for smooth and natural interactions with people.

These advancements show how humanoid robots have evolved over the past decade. Once limited to basic movements, today's models are capable of running, jumping, performing precise tasks, and even displaying creative abilities. Their applications are moving beyond exhibitions into practical, real-world applications.

A shift to real-world application

Beyond individual robot displays, several companies showcased humanoid robots designed for industrial tasks such as vehicle inspections, material sorting and heavy lifting. Some of these products are approaching mass production, signaling the next wave of commercial humanoid robotics.

"We are currently doing practical training in different factories. By the end of this year, we plan to deliver a small batch of robots to customers," said exhibitor Jiao Jichao.

"In three to five years, we hope robots will be as readily accessible as smartphones or other automated equipment, where customers can use them right out of the box."

Zhao Mingguo, professor in the Department of Automation at Tsinghua University and director of the Robotics Control Laboratory, described this year's event as a large-scale commercial and technical experiment.

"By next year or the following year, we'll begin to see the outcomes of these efforts—some technologies will stick, while others will evolve, leading to a variety of new applications."

"Humanoid robots are creating new fields of employment and opening doors to brand-new applications," he added.

In addition to whole robots, 12 new core components were unveiled at the conference. One example was a 1.6-meter-tall robot weighing just 43 kilograms, yet capable of lifting up to 145 kilograms while performing deep squats. This impressive balance of strength and flexibility was made possible by a proprietary joint with the highest power density globally—nearly 2.5 times that of traditional robot joints.

"China still needs to advance in the development of components and materials. It's crucial to figure out how we can integrate our expertise in control systems, artificial intelligence, and even large models into robots," said Qiao Hong, a professor at the Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

"I also hope the country invests in future technologies, including new materials and brain-inspired technologies."

Policy support drives China's robotics innovation

In recent years, China has stepped up its efforts to advance the humanoid robot industry, supported by government policies and the creation of innovation centers.

In 2023, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued guidelines outlining a development timeline for humanoid robots in China. By November 2023, the country's first provincial-level humanoid robot innovation center was established in Beijing to accelerate technological advancements and the industrialization of humanoid robots. In May this year, China launched the National and Local Co-built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center in Shanghai.

Experts believe that in the coming years, humanoid robots could become a key driver of global economic and technological innovation. These robots are expected to replace some existing jobs while also creating entirely new industries and employment opportunities.

China's humanoid robot market is projected to reach 75 billion yuan ($10.5 billion) by 2029, accounting for 32.7 percent of the global market, according to a report from the First Chinese Humanoid Robot Industry Conference in April.

The country aims to build a robust innovation system for humanoid robots by 2025, followed by a secure and reliable industrial supply chain by 2027. By then, humanoid robots are expected to be fully integrated into the broader economy.