{
  "id": 3564703,
  "title": "The Humanoids at China’s Robot Games Were Faster Than Usain Bolt—but I’m More Impressed by Their Tweezer Mastery",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/the-humanoids-at-chinas-robot-games-were-faster-than-usain-bolt-but",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-26T18:15:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Wired Business",
    "slug": "wired-business",
    "url": "https://www.wired.com/story/i-could-watch-the-robot-games-forever-ai-lab/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The recent Humanoid Robot Games held in Beijing, China, proved to be a remarkable display of advanced robotics technology. Held between August 22 and 26, the event drew over 600 teams and more than 2,000 robots from China and 15 other countries. The pinnacle of the competition featured humanoid robots setting new records in speed and agility, showcasing their potential for real-world applications.\n\nOne standout performance came from the Tiangong Ultra, a creation of the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center, which ran the 100-meter dash in a record-breaking 8.86 seconds. Another robot, Lightning from smartphone manufacturer Honor, matched this speed just a few days prior, completing the distance in 9.47 seconds. Both robots outpaced the (human) world record set by Usain Bolt.\n\nBeyond speed, the robots also excelled in complex tasks requiring dexterity and precision. Unitree, a company based in Hangzhou, gained fame for its innovations in high-power motors that enable robots to maintain balance during high-speed movements. These robots were seen performing challenging maneuvers, such as plugging cables into sockets and placing objects in trash cans within a mock bedroom setting.\n\nWhile some images and videos suggested that humans were remotely controlling certain robots, the advanced manipulation skills demonstrated by these machines were still impressive. For instance, the robots were able to grasp tiny objects using tools, even when operated under human control. This development is crucial for potential automation in factories and warehouses, where robots could handle intricate tasks like wiring automobile chassis or assembling electronics.\n\nGalbot, a Chinese company, participated in multiple events, including a Supermarket Scenario Competition that involved stocking shelves in a retail store. This showcased their capability to push commercial capabilities forward by adapting to more open and unpredictable real-world applications. Galbot also demonstrated an autonomous feat – playing tennis with a human opponent – which requires advanced perception and high-speed reflexes.\n\nThe ultimate goal of the World Humanoid Robot Games, however, extends beyond just technological achievement. By getting the public excited about the potential of robotics, the event aims to foster a positive view of a future where science and engineering continue to thrive. Author Chris Atkeson of Carnegie Mellon University expressed his enthusiasm for the positive outlook on a technological future, albeit wishing it were more American in nature.",
  "summary": "Beijing’s endlessly delightful Robot Games featured tons of impressive stunts. But the most mind-blowing tricks challenged the humanoid’s brain, not its brawn.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Wired",
        "title": "The Humanoids at China’s Robot Games Were Faster Than Usain Bolt—but I’m More Impressed by Their Tweezer Mastery",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/the-humanoids-at-chinas-robot-games-were-faster-than-usain-bolt-but-3565795",
        "published": "2026-08-26T18:15:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}