Chinese Humanoid Robot Breaks Record with 66-Mile Walk in 3 Days
A Chinese humanoid robot has achieved a noteworthy milestone by completing a 66-mile walk over three days, earning a spot in the Guinness World Records. The AgiBot A2, standing at five feet six inches tall, commenced its journey from Suzhou, a city in eastern China, on November 10. It finally reached the historic Bund area in Shanghai on November 13.
Record-Setting Journey
The feat marks the longest distance ever covered by a humanoid robot. The achievement was officially recognized by Guinness World Records on November 13. AgiBot, a Shanghai-based robotics company, reported that during its walk, the A2 successfully navigated diverse surfaces while consistently adhering to traffic regulations.
Challenges Faced
- Traversed highways and urban spaces
- Moved alongside cyclists and scooters
- Maintained a steady pace on varied terrain
Video footage shared by AgiBot illustrated the A2’s progress as it marched through urban environments, finally striding along the scenic Bund with the iconic Shanghai skyline in the background.
The Future of Humanoid Robots
As global investment in physical AI surges, experts have shown optimism for the industry’s future. Morgan Stanley anticipates that over one billion humanoid robots could exist by 2050. The Chinese government is actively promoting domestic innovation in robotics, aiming to establish leadership in the global market.
Recent Developments in Robotics
- Beijing hosted the inaugural humanoid robot games in August, featuring over 500 participants.
- Competitions included various tasks, such as basketball and cleaning.
AgiBot’s A2 is primarily designed for customer service applications. It comes equipped with advanced features, such as a chat function and lip-reading capabilities. These developments highlight the trend towards integrating humanoid robots into daily life.
Expert Opinions
At institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, researchers are focused on maintaining a competitive edge in robotics. Professor Daniela Rus emphasized that AI and robots empower individuals by enhancing physical capabilities and precision.
Furthermore, a study by Gartner suggests that by 2030, 80% of Americans may interact with AI-driven robots daily. This data reflects a growing integration of technology in everyday activities.
