The 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing, running from 19 to 23 August, showcased more than 3,000 products, underlining China's rapidly expanding robotics industry. The event featured humanoid robots engaging in mixed martial arts, performing synchronized dances, and even tending bar, drawing thousands of visitors.
Robot MMA and Humanoid Performances
Among the most striking displays, a humanoid robot by Chinese company ENGINEAI kicked another in a robot mixed martial arts fight, captured in a photograph by Kevin Frayer/Getty Images. The opening day on 19 August saw humanoid robots from the Chinese company Unitree walk off the stage after performing at the company's display.
Other performances included two Unitree humanoid robots executing a synchronized dance routine, and a Unitree robot performing a flip. A humanoid robot also demonstrated bartending skills, while robotic arms performed shadow play, and a robotic hand held a table tennis racket to play the sport.
Visitor Interactions and Demonstrations
Visitors interacted with the exhibits in various ways. A woman in costume posed with robot dogs from the company VBOT, a child watched a robotic hand operate, and a visitor used a smartphone to capture a lifelike humanoid robot. Another visitor high-fived a humanoid robot, and a young visitor was photographed at the conference.
The event also displayed a humanoid embodied robot and a humanoid robot being charged, as documented by photographers including Cheng Xin, VCG, and Wu Hao/EPA.
Industry Highlights and Global Participation
A Booster Robotics humanoid robot played soccer, and humanoid robots were photographed after performing a dance routine. The conference covered advances across the robotics industry, from humanoid robots to embodied intelligence and cutting-edge components, according to the event's organizers.
The World Robot Conference 2026, with more than 3,000 products on display, reflects China's growing focus on robotics as a key sector for technological development and industrial innovation.
