Humanoid robots in China are beginning to be tested not only in specialized testing grounds, but also in real-world conditions, including hotels, libraries, and residential spaces. Analysts note that this marks a new phase in the industry's development, as robots gradually move out of laboratories and closer to practical application.
Tests are being conducted as part of the Second World Humanoid Robot Games, taking place from August 22 to 26 in Beijing. For the first time, the program includes a household competition, where 38 teams competed in the opening round inside the Habit@ smart apartment. The robots must perform routine household chores, tidy up the living room, fold clothes, and wash laundry. The machines also need to respond to unexpected situations, such as accepting a delivered package via voice command.
Special attention is paid to autonomy, as robots operating via remote control receive only half of the possible points. Penalties are imposed for collisions and dropping items, creating additional challenges for participants. Other tests are conducted in real hotels and libraries, where the machines deliver luggage to rooms and arrange books on shelves.
This year's games feature 666 teams and 2,056 robots from 16 countries. The main question now is whether a humanoid robot will be able to independently handle a complete chain of real-world tasks.
The transition of humanoid robots from laboratories to real domestic environments marks the formation of a new direction in the technology sector. This process demonstrates that engineers are trying to solve not just isolated mechanical problems, but rather to create systems capable of operating in unpredictable conditions. The level of autonomy itself will become the benchmark determining the applicability of such technologies in everyday life.
