The 2025 World Robot Conference kicked off in Beijing, China, on August 8, running for five days and showcasing more than 50 humanoid robot manufacturers. The event features the largest number of exhibitors ever at a global robotics-related event, displaying applications ranging from home services and industrial transport to inspection tasks.
Humanoid robots take the spotlight
Humanoid robots remain the biggest highlight of this year's conference. More than 100 new robot models are debuting this year, which is nearly twice as many as in 2024, making this event a key indicator of global robotics industry trends.
Many Chinese companies have introduced application-specific humanoid robots, such as domestic robots capable of distinguishing between seasonings and industrial robots capable of transporting components weighing up to 200 kilograms. These developments underscore how humanoid robots are rapidly transitioning from the laboratory to commercialized products.
Chinese robot firms shine
This year's conference theme is "making robots smarter, making embodied agents more intelligent," emphasizing the two core concepts of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
Leading Chinese humanoid robot firms that have gained significant attention in recent years, such as Unitree Robotics and Galbot, are showcasing their latest innovations. Founders from Fourier, Robotera, and EngineAI Robotics Technology will also share insights on cutting-edge technology trends, serving as important indicators for the future development of the humanoid robotics industry.
Occupying the largest exhibition space is JD.com, which has partnered with prominent humanoid robot players, including Unitree Robotics, AgiBot Innovation Technology, Tiangong, EngineAI, Galaxea AI, LimX Dynamics, Noetix Robotics, and others, to present more than 50 of the latest robot products.
Unitree Robotics remains one of the most closely watched exhibitors, making the global debut of its quadruped robot Unitree A2 alongside its latest third-generation humanoid robot Unitree R1.
China dominates robotics market
China continues to be the world's largest market for robotics, with robot density rapidly rising in recent years to rank third globally. In particular, the penetration of service robots has notably increased across the home services, warehouse logistics, and healthcare sectors.
According to market research firm IDC, Chinese companies continued to dominate the global commercial service robot market in 2024, accounting for as much as 80% of total shipments. This scale advantage positions them at the forefront of the next wave of AI-powered robot development.
Article edited by Jack Wu
