UBTECH

China kicked off the 2026 World Robot Conference to showcase its expanding robotics industry as it moves technology into real-world applications. The conference featured companies like Unitree and UBTECH demonstrating models that perform tasks such as boxing, dancing, and folding clothes. However, the event coincided with reports of a U.S. ban on foreign-made humanoid robots targeting national security risks.

China hosted the 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing, where companies showcased their expanding robotics industry with various models like humanoid robots and helper machines. Leading companies such as Unitree and UBTECH demonstrated advanced capabilities, including dancing, boxing, and emotional care for individual buyers. The conference took place amidst reports of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission banning imports of new foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots due to national security concerns.

China held the World Robot Conference in Beijing to showcase its expanding robotics industry, featuring demonstrations from companies like Unitree and UBTECH. Exhibitors showcased advanced models ranging from emotional care humanoids to industrial helper robots. The conference took place amid heightened geopolitical tension, following a ban by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission on imports of new foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots.

BYD executive Stella Li aims to deploy humanoid robots in car showrooms to enhance service, competing with Tesla's Optimus. BYD plans to develop its own robots, emphasizing they won't replace human salespeople but improve customer interaction. The humanoid robot market is projected to grow significantly, with Chinese companies dominating shipments.