I spent a day at a robot “carnival” in Shanghai. Here’s what I saw.

What happened

A robot carnival took place in Shanghai, showcasing humanoid robots designed to integrate artificial intelligence into everyday life. This spotlight on embodied AI—where AI is embedded in physical machines—is central to China’s current five-year plan. Chinese companies are already leading globally in humanoid robotics, and the event demonstrated nearly 90% of these robots operating in real-world settings, not just labs.

Why it matters

China is actively projecting AI beyond software into tangible, human-like machines that navigate and interact with physical environments. This strategy pressures global AI efforts to move faster on embodied AI, a complex challenge involving robotics, sensors, perception, and AI coordination. For business operators and investors, the rise of these robots represents a shift in how AI can replace or assist physical labor, affecting sectors from retail to customer service. Companies outside China must now catch up or risk falling behind in a field with high barriers to entry and significant state backing.

What to watch next

Monitor commercialization attempts of humanoid robots in real consumer or business settings over the next 12 to 18 months. Watch for partnerships between Chinese hardware manufacturers and AI software firms that push multifunctional humanoid platforms. Also, see how Western competitors react—whether they boost embodied AI funding or focus on software-only strategies. The speed at which these robots move from novelty displays into viable operational roles will determine who leads the next wave of AI innovation.

AI Quick Briefs Editorial Desk