The World Robot Conference (WRC) 2024, held this year in Beijing, has once again proven to be a showcase of cutting-edge technology and innovation, 27 humanoid robot models were featured, attracting 169 exhibitors and showcasing 600 products. With thousands of attendees from across the globe, the conference highlighted the latest advancements in robotics, and among the myriad of exhibits, five humanoid robots emerged as the stars of the show. These robots captivated audiences with their sophisticated design, advanced capabilities, and the promise they hold for the future of robotics.
Here’s a closer look at the five humanoid robots that stole the spotlight at WRC 2024.
Stardust Intelligence created the humanoid assistance robot known as the Astribot S1. In an April demo film published by the Chinese startup, it was first shown performing activities like pouring wine into a glass and folding shirts. According to a report by Global Times, the Astribot S1 stationed at the booth at the conference showcased its calligraphy abilities to the delegates.
At the Beijing conference, Zhejiang Humanoid Robot Innovation Center in China unveiled NAVIAI, a humanoid robot. It was allegedly observed showing off unusual abilities like speaking, brewing tea, and playing chess. The creators of NAVIAI claim that the 60 kg hefty humanoid is intended to resemble a quasi-human nature.
Five new delivery-capable robots were unveiled by robotics startup Agibot prior to the conference. The Shanghai-based company, which was started by a former Huawei employee, plans to manufacture a large batch of 300 robots and have the humanoids transporting goods by mid-October. According to CNBC, these robots are not only meant for delivery; they may also serve as sales representatives, tour guides, or manufacturing part pickers.
The dual-arm humanoid robot on wheels from Japanese company UniX AI is meant to be used as a home service bot that assists with household tasks like making breakfast or doing the laundry. For example, Wanda has multi-motive primitive fusion technology and stain identification to assist with dishwashing. There were rumors that Wanda demonstrated her culinary prowess at the conference.
At the Beijing conference, robots also performed automated tasks including opening Coke cans, playing the Zither, a stringed instrument, and Chinese martial arts.
At the same time, Tesla unveiled their flagship humanoid robot, Optimus, at the World Robot Conference. But according to reports, the figure sat still in a glass exhibit while guests took pictures of it. In order to train the humanoid, Elon Musk’s Tesla company has started employing people to wear motion capture suits and virtual reality (VR) headsets.
Musk declared earlier this year that two Optimus robots at one of Tesla’s plants were already operating on their own. “Tesla will have genuinely useful humanoid robots in low production for Tesla internal use next year and, hopefully, high production for other companies in 2026,” he posted on X in July.
A display of different 3D-printed flexible robotic manipulators made by Shenzhen, China-based Wisson Technology was also held during the Beijing conference. Since the former category of products is made of plastic, these parts, which act as pneumatic artificial muscles to power the robots, are far less expensive than traditional transmission devices.
However, concerns have been voiced over the proportion of damaged parts in these robotic assemblies. According to Reuters, Yi Gang, the founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, a company specializing in integrated joints, “the whole supply chain still needs to address issues with product reliability.”
The World Robot Conference 2024 offered a glimpse into the future of humanoid robotics, with these five standout robots demonstrating diverse applications and groundbreaking advancements in the field. From empathetic caregivers and agile performers to conversational pioneers and educational tools, each robot represents a unique facet of how robotics can enhance and transform various aspects of human life. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to redefine our interactions with machines and unlock new possibilities for innovation across multiple industries. The spotlight at WRC 2024 shone brightly on these humanoid robots, setting the stage for an exciting future in robotics and artificial intelligence.
