Robots stepped boldly into history in Beijing, racing alongside humans in a groundbreaking half-marathon. This event, held in Beijing’s E-Town, showcased China’s drive to lead in robotics and AI technology. Dozens of machines tackled the 21-kilometer course, testing their limits in real-world conditions.
A Milestone Race in Beijing
Early Saturday, robots lined up as the Chinese song “I Believe” echoed through loudspeakers. Human runners watched eagerly, phones ready to capture the moment. One small android fell but rose to cheers after minutes on the ground. Meanwhile, a propeller-powered robot crashed into a barrier, toppling an engineer. Still, the race marked a historic leap forward.
Around 20 Chinese teams joined, featuring robots from 75 to 180 centimeters tall and weighing up to 88 kilograms. Some ran autonomously, while others followed remote guidance from engineers. The focus stayed on finishing, not winning, to evaluate batteries, motors, and algorithms. “It’s a major boost for robotics,” said Cui Wenhao, a 28-year-old engineer at Noetix Robotics.
China’s Tech Ambition Shines
China aims to outpace the United States in AI and robotics, and this event proves it. For instance, DeepSeek’s cost-effective chatbot gained fame in January, rivaling American tech. Additionally, dancing robots dazzled viewers at the Chinese New Year gala. Consequently, China strengthens its global tech standing.
“Robots taking the track is a giant leap forward,” said Liang Liang, E-Town’s deputy director. Nearby, engineers ran alongside their creations, ensuring smooth performance. Kong Yichang, a 25-year-old from DroidUp, noted, “This race builds a foundation for robots in society.” Indeed, it shows robots can blend into human life.
Beijing’s humanoid half-marathon signals a turning point for technology. As China pushes innovation, the world watches closely. This race not only tested robotic capabilities but also highlighted China’s bold tech vision.
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