The first-ever World Humanoid Robot Games kicked off this week in the National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing, China. More than 500 robots from 280 teams representing 16 countries including China, the U.S., Brazil and Germany showed up to test their mettle (pun intended). Some teams hail from global universities while others represent private robotics companies.
The robots, controlled by human operators, will compete in 26 events like martial arts, gymnastics and soccer. Among the list of requirements for the bots to compete is that they must be of humanoid form, having “a trunk, upper limbs, and two feet,” and they “must be self-developed, purchased or leased by the participating teams.” The first gold medal of the event went to Unitree Robotics, whose Unitree H1 humanoid robot took first place in the 1,500-meter race with a time of 6:34. The bot was joined on the podium by its team of human operators.
“By establishing a competitive and showcase platform, the tournament aims to accelerate and enhance the integration of robots into human life, contribute to economic and social progress, and foster the deep integration of science, technology, sports, and culture,” said the organizers of the games.
