It is no secret that China has been making a splash with its demonstrations of humanoid robots for some time. To the usual presentations of different types of models for different types of functions, we must add the spectacular staging that was carried out at the recent Spring 2026 Gala. According to Marina Zhang, a well-known technology expert, the revolution is obvious.
For her, the progress supposedly made by the Asian giant in recent days, weeks and months shows that we could be talking about a before and after. However, not everyone is so clear. The debate about how close or not so close the Chinese robotic landing could be is more topical than everand causes division.
The Chinese robot revolution, an authentic reality or a staging?
We’ve all seen what Chinese robots are, in theory, capable of. From dancing complicated traditional dances to practicing kung fu and other oriental martial arts. For experts like Marina Zhang, this makes clear the level their robotics have reached in terms of precision, balance and coordination. But is it really entirely like that?
Zhang has insisted that, Beyond the show, all these technological capabilities that could be applied in industrial environments. «What we see on television is just the tip of the iceberg,» he said. «Algorithms that enable precise coordination and control of these robots can be translated into smart production lines, improving efficiency and reducing human errors.»
Machines that would change everything
As reported by the prestigious media The Guardian, smart manufacturing involves the use of robots, artificial intelligence and data analysis to automate industrial processes efficiently and flexibly. According to Zhang, the adoption of advanced Chinese robots in factories could transform the way goods are produced, from automotive to electronics and logistics.
«These robots have the ability to learn complex routines, adapt to different tasks and work safely alongside humans»says Zhang. «If properly integrated, they could reduce production prices, increase product quality and accelerate industrial innovation.» In other words, Chinese robots would mark a new era in global manufacturing.
Despite this, Zhang also admits that there is some gallery exposure in many of the demonstrations featuring Chinese robots. An effort by the country’s authorities to consolidate itself as the largest world power in terms of robotics and artificial intelligence. Something that would be more in line with what other experts say.
Of the latter, Many agree that current robots, like those shown in China, are not truly autonomous. That is, they are controlled and programmed but they really lack the ability to function in real environments. If this is true, perhaps the most logical thing to ask is the following: if they are not ready now, when will they be ready?