China accelerates humanoid robot development for wide applications driven by industrial growth and governmental support.
At the Zhongguancun International Innovation Center in Beijing, the humanoid robot Kuavo has become a regular fixture, performing tasks such as greeting visitors, providing information, and guiding guests through the facility.
Standing 1.7 meters tall, Kuavo is equipped with advanced cognitive capabilities and is currently deployed in universities, exhibition halls, and automotive plants. The robot is also expected to offer home services in the future.
The recent 2025 Zhongguancun Forum highlighted China’s advancements in robotics, with nearly 100 humanoid robots showcasing diverse abilities, including musical performances and event hosting.
China’s humanoid robots are evolving rapidly due to advancements in embodied intelligence, expanding their applications in both industrial and household settings.
Industry data reveals China’s leadership in the field, with over 190,000 active robotics patents, accounting for about two-thirds of global patents, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
The Chinese humanoid robot market is expected to reach 870 billion yuan (around 120 billion USD) by 2030, according to the Chinese Institute of Electronics.
Several humanoid robots are already in commercial use, including the Tiangong Ultra, which can run at 12 km/h and climb 35-cm steps, and is preparing for a humanoid robot marathon.
The Walker S1, developed by Shenzhen-based UBTECH, is undergoing precision quality inspections at an Audi production facility.
Government support is accelerating the development of humanoid robots, with Beijing launching a three-year action plan backed by a 100-billion-yuan fund to promote embodied intelligence innovation, with similar initiatives in other provinces.
Beijing has recognized embodied intelligence as a key focus for next-generation AI development, moving from research to commercialization.
The industry’s prospects are strong, with Leju Robotics Chairman Leng Xiaokun noting that Kuavo received 250 orders in the first quarter, exceeding the company’s half-year target.
Unitree Robotics Vice General Manager Wang Qizhou emphasized the company’s efforts to improve production efficiency and transition to autonomous adaptive systems.
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