At the World Robot Conference held in Beijing last week, Chinese robotics firms showcased a wide array of robots designed for real-world tasks, marking a shift from performance-focused displays to practical applications.

Robots demonstrated included a flower-arranging machine capable of identifying and adapting to moving objects, and a dog-like robot designed to navigate rough terrain for industrial inspections, logistics, and emergency rescue missions.

Xu Menghong, director of strategy and investment at a robotics company, explained, “We send the robots into people’s homes together with cleaners to carry out different tasks, for example, tidying up shoes, or organising children’s toys.”

Yu Chao, founder and CEO of Lumos Robotics, highlighted the importance of data collection in this transition, stating, “That’s why we’ve developed a number of data-collection tools.”

Xu Ji, a humanoid robot marketing manager, noted a broader industry trend: “From the beginning, when companies were rushing into the humanoid robot sector and focusing on performances and dancing, we’re now seeing companies generally looking for scenarios where the technology can be commercially deployed.”

Wang Xingxing, founder of Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics, said the industry is approaching a milestone where robots can reliably perform tasks in unfamiliar environments.

However, challenges remain in meeting investor expectations. Ethan Qi, associate director at Counterpoint Research, remarked, “When you have more than 100 humanoid robot companies, and valuations are reaching tens of billions of yuan … or even higher, the question is: how do you deliver on those expectations for investors?”

This evolution reflects the robotics sector's efforts to move beyond exhibitions and establish viable business models in the Asia-Pacific region.

Sources