Second world humanoid robotics games open today with new competitive events

The second edition of the World Humanoid Robotics Games opened today, organized by the Beijing Municipal Government and China Central Television. The event will run until August 26, featuring 51 competitions and over 1,300 matches. This year, the competition has introduced high-intensity events such as long jump, weightlifting, tug-of-war, and table tennis, which challenge both the mechanical and control systems of the robots. The main competition will take place at the National Speed Skating Oval, known as 'Ice Ribbon,' from August 22 to 26. Over 666 teams, representing 16 countries across six continents, will compete with more than 2,056 robots. The number of teams has increased by 138% compared to the first edition, and the number of robots has quadrupled. International teams from the United States, Germany, Japan, and Brazil, including five teams from the World Robot Football Championship, have joined the event. Domestically, 157 companies, 200 universities, and research institutions have participated, with 641 teams and 1,975 robots. Leading domestic companies and 27 985 universities are also present, showcasing a strong collaboration between industry, academia, and research. The competition has expanded from 26 to 51 events, with 30 competitive and 21 scenario-based competitions. The number of matches has increased from 487 to 1,301. Scenario-based events now include real-world applications in industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, home environments, and logistics, with a special focus on dexterous hand competitions. These include tasks like picking up beans and tightening screws, with robots now competing in pairs rather than individually, enhancing the spectacle and engagement of the event.