China bets on robots to move from flashy demos to factory floors

China is betting on robots to transition from flashy demonstrations to real-world factory applications, as evidenced by the recent 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing. The week-long event showcased around 3,000 products, with Unitree, a leading Chinese humanoid robot maker, taking the spotlight. Unitree's models were seen boxing, dancing, and even playing ping pong with a human opponent, while another displayed the robot's ability to fold a piece of cloth. The opening of the conference marked Unitree's stock market debut in Shanghai.

The conference comes amid the U.S. Federal Communications Commission's recent ban on imports of new foreign-made humanoid robots and power inverters, citing national security risks. The ban applies to new imports of quadruped robots, or four-legged robot dogs, as well. Proponents argue that advanced robots could pose cybersecurity and other national security risks.

Among the industrial robots on display were models from UBTECH Robotics, which demonstrated their ability to move components as they would on a factory floor. However, the most attention was drawn to humanoid robots with lifelike faces, marketed for emotional care. One such robot, capable of talking, making facial expressions, rotating its neck, and moving its hands, was available for individual purchase at a price of 168,000 yuan, or over $24,000.

Despite the impressive demonstrations, experts suggest that many humanoid robots are more impressive as performers than practical workers, with some companies showcasing helper robots equipped with mechanical arms and hands, but struggling to complete simple tasks like folding a shirt.