The First World Robo-Olympiad Opens in China

The first-ever World Humanoid Robot Games have started in Beijing and will run until August 17. More than 500 robotic systems and 280 teams from 16 countries are participating in this unique technological competition. Among the participants are students, schoolchildren, and specialists from leading robotics companies, including Unitree and the Beijing Institute of Artificial Intelligence, reports Global Times.

The competitive program of the robo-olympics covers 26 diverse disciplines. Some of them demonstrate the sporting capabilities of machines — running, long jump, soccer — while other tests check the practical skills of robots, such as sorting medications or cleaning hotel rooms.

The grand opening ceremony was organized according to classic Olympic traditions: teams ceremoniously marched in a parade with the event flag, and the symbolic flame was impressively lit in special light cubes. Participants also impressed spectators by demonstrating creative abilities — playing musical instruments, dancing, performing martial arts elements, and a fashion show that harmoniously combined motifs of Chinese culture and modern technology.

However, even at such a carefully prepared event, technical malfunctions couldn't be avoided: during a soccer match, one of the robots unexpectedly fell, and another model had to be literally carried in the organizers' arms during the fashion parade.

The organizers present this innovative event as an international platform for exchanging advanced experience in robotics and an effective way to popularize high technology among the younger generation.