BEIJING, China — Humanoid robots participated in a three-day multi-sport event known as the World Humanoid Robot Games, concluding on Sunday in Beijing, with events featuring intense racing and boxing.

However, incidents of robots toppling, crashing, and needing human intervention raised concerns about the level of autonomy these machines can truly achieve.

The event showcased over 500 humanoid robots from 280 teams representing 16 countries, including the United States, Germany, and Japan. Participants competed in various sports such as soccer, running, and boxing at the National Speed Skating Oval, a 12,000-seat venue constructed for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

The event comes as China has stepped up efforts to develop humanoid robots powered by artificial intelligence.

Robots often operated in close proximity to their handlers, whether being remotely controlled, physically assisted, or having components like batteries or limbs adjusted.

Despite showing some impressive capabilities, the robots occasionally stumbled, necessitating human aid. In one instance, a robot required two people to carry it off the field, much like an injured sports player, highlighting the current challenges faced by these machines.

Nonetheless, the audience reacted with enthusiasm similar to that seen in traditional sports. Cheers filled the venue whenever a robot achieved a punch, scored a goal, or secured a victory, indicating that spectators were truly engaged in the robots’ feats.

AI-powered robots are expected to be increasingly used in industrial settings.

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