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ITV News
21-05-2025
- Business
- ITV News
Could there be a robot in every home by 2030?
In a suburb of Shanghai, there is a hub for tech companies where they are slowly but surely creating a robot revolution. We visited what they call the "training centre" of Agibot, where we watched as a team of operators helped put the human into humanoid robots. Through repetitive tasks, they are generating data which will eventually allow a fleet of robots to be programmed to do everything from making a sandwich to restocking supermarket shelves. There was also a room where a robot was being guided to make a bed, but unfortunately, it looked like they were not yet close to mastering that mundane task. It is when you visit companies like Agibot that you get the sense of AI moving from something abstract into the physical realm of our everyday lives. According to the company's director of testing, Ruan Cheng, the aim is to relieve humans of repetitive, dangerous, and dirty jobs. He believes that by the end of this decade every home, at least in China, will have a robot. And key to China's rise as a robotics superpower has been its huge manufacturing base, which is switching from traditional machinery and manpower to high-tech automation at breakneck speed. 'We have market capabilities, manufacturing strength, and world-leading AI expertise,' said Ruan. 'We believe the future of robots is in China.' From the dancing robots featured in the Chinese New Year Gala to robots attempting a half-marathon last month, 2025 has already been a showcase of China's robotic ambitions. UBTECH, one of the country's leading tech firms, recently unveiled what it sees as the factory floor of the future where there is not a human being in sight. China's ambitions in robotics were laid out as part of a ten year strategy called Made in China 2025. That strategy set out to make the country a global leader in ten different industries, of which robotics was one and it has become one of the hottest technological battlegrounds between China and the United States. That strategy has been pushed from the very top of China's leadership team. During a recent visit to Shanghai tech hubs, President Xi Jinping urged workers to power China's technological rise, saying the nation's success depends on them. The continued success of China's AI and robotics industry comes in spite of tech restrictions placed on the country by the US government. In 2022, the Biden administration effectively banned exports of advanced microchips, and equipment to produce advanced chips by Chinese chipmakers, as part of an effort to stifle China's semiconductor industry and, in turn, the military. The boss of Nvidia, one of the world's leading chip makers, said on Wednesday that such policies had been a ''failure'' and had only forced Chinese companies to boost investment and develop a supply chain that does not reply on foreign manufacturers, namely the United States. Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said the tech restrictions had lost American companies, including his own, billions of dollars. What China is doing in robotics mirrors the strategy used to dominate electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing — building a new industry from the ground up with heavy investment, strong industrial policy, and global ambition. The country has become a runaway leader in EV production and has overtaken Japan as the biggest car exporter in the world. While US President Donald Trump has called for a revival of traditional manufacturing jobs in America, China is instead investing in automated alternatives. There are hundreds of firms developing AI-powered robotic systems for industries, ranging from healthcare to logistics. According to Lin Tao from Soft Robot Tech in Beijing, there is one key advantage in China - talent. Every year, over four million Chinese students graduate with degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). 'A large number of engineers majoring in automation and mechanical engineering graduate each year in China,' Lin Tao of Soft Robot Tech told ITV News. 'This provides us with a very rich talent pool and as the technology develops, they are improving their skills, in many different areas to help advance the number of potential uses.' But while companies like Soft Robot Tech welcome the annual influx of fresh young talent, their products are also being viewed as a solution in a country with an ageing manual workforce. While automation is being resisted in other parts of the world, where it is seen as a threat to jobs, in China there has been little resistance. This is partly due to the lack of labour unions and limited space for protest. However, it is also the case that in China there is a more open attitude towards technology. People here tend to embrace the advancements and accept them as a sign of progress - particularly when they come from Chinese companies. China and the US may have agreed a ceasefire in their trade war, but when it comes to technology, robotics has become one of the fiercest battlegrounds.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Certis unboxes 'robocop' as it explores use of humanoid robots
SINGAPORE, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore-based tech security powerhouse Certis has received its first humanoid robot, marking a new step in its push to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could reshape frontline operations in an increasingly tech-driven services sector. The robot, developed by robotics firm Agibot, was delivered last week under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two companies in February. Under the agreement, both parties will explore how humanoid robots might be used in security and integrated facilities management, although Certis said no deployment decisions have been made for now. Described as a research and evaluation initiative, the partnership will focus on understanding how humanoid robots could eventually complement human roles in complex operational settings, at commercial buildings, transport hubs or customer-facing environments, in the areas of security, operations and facilities management, as a start. "This collaboration represents a shift in how we think about technology integration," said Mr Leonard Oh, chief executive of Certis' technology services business. "We are exploring how humanoid robotics might complement our workforce and integrate with our existing operational ecosystems in meaningful ways — whether by enhancing service touchpoints, improving responsiveness, or unlocking new modes of human-technology interaction." The robot will be tested for integration with Certis' existing platforms, including its proprietary Mozart orchestration system, which enables coordination across security, facilities and customer service operations. The company emphasised that it is not conducting a live deployment at this stage, but instead is studying the robot's capabilities, interface compatibility, and potential fit within its wider operational ecosystem. This is the first time Certis is employing the use of a humanoid robot, though it has deployed other forms of robotics in recent years. These include autonomous mobile surveillance units used for patrolling high-security sites, and earlier-generation service robots that were trialled in commercial buildings for tasks such as thermal screening, temperature taking and concierge assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new robot differs from previous deployments in its humanoid design and AI capabilities, which are aimed at enabling human interaction, navigation and service delivery in indoor environments. It features mobility functions and interactive elements, and is designed to operate alongside human staff, rather than replace them. Agibot's general manager of sales, Mr Xiong Jilin, said the partnership would allow the firm to explore real-world deployment scenarios, especially in service environments with high operational demands. "This partnership will allow us to test how humanoid robots can be applied thoughtfully and responsibly in real-world settings, and test the usability and acceptance of using such robots in security, facilities management and guest management settings," he said. The move comes as Singapore steadily increases its adoption of robotics and automation across sectors, particularly in response to labour shortages and a national push toward productivity gains. The country's National Robotics Programme has backed research and pilot projects across areas such as cleaning, logistics, healthcare and transport. Autonomous floor-scrubbing robots are now a common sight in shopping malls and airport terminals, while delivery bots have been trialled in residential estates and university campuses. "This partnership between Certis and Agibot speaks to Singapore's strength as a trusted global hub for robotics and embodied AI innovation and adoption," said Mr Tung Meng Fai, Executive Director, National Robotics Programme. "We are encouraged that Certis is taking the lead to explore new solutions and technologies to augment its workforce and uplift the security industry." In the private sector, hospitality chains, hospitals and public infrastructure operators have also adopted robotic assistants for concierge, navigation and logistics tasks. Despite the growing presence of robots in the public sphere, humanoid robots remain relatively uncommon in operational use, due to higher costs, technological complexity, and evolving questions around user interaction, safety and scalability. Certis acknowledged that humanoid robotics remained in its early stages, with part of a longer-term strategy to assess what role such technologies could play in augmenting its services for its customers. "While the capabilities of humanoid robots are promising, practical integration still requires careful consideration—across people, processes and platforms," Mr Oh said. "Ultimately, our goal is to shape technology that works alongside people, not in place of them." About Certis ( Backed by decades of experience in security, Certis is a leader today in smart integrated operations, leveraging technology to power transformations in security, manpower, facilities and property management solutions. Guided by our Operational Design First philosophy, our vast service offerings capitalise on our strong security heritage and deep operational expertise, enhanced with applied AI solutions for better decision making and outcomes. Central to our approach is our unique Business Process Re-engineering and Operations (BPRO®) framework, where we help customers manage change and enhance efficiencies through design thinking and a problem-solving approach. Incorporated in 2004, Certis is headquartered in Singapore, with an international presence extending to Australia and Qatar. We are a trusted partner dedicated to our clients' success, supported by our 26,000-strong global team, always striving to make our world safer, smarter, better. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Certis Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Mayor
18-05-2025
- Science
- Business Mayor
High-tech spectacle blends with science engagement – SHINE – BEYOND A SINGLE STORY
Ti Gong A huge humanoid robot waves hands in the virtual world while humanoid robots walk the red carpet in real world. Humanoid robots strutted down a red carpet alongside scientists and tech leaders at the opening of the 2025 Shanghai Science Festival on Saturday, blending a high-tech spectacle with public science engagement. Held at Zhangjiang Science Hall, the event spotlighted China's rapidly advancing robotics industry, positioning Shanghai as a showcase for emerging technologies including AI, XR, and humanoid automation. Fourier's founder and CEO Gu Jie, and vice president Zeng Xiang, walked the carpet with two humanoid robots developed by the company: GR-2 and N1. Jiang Xiaowei / SHINE Fourier's founder and CEO Gu Jie (second from the left) and vice president Zeng Xiang (left) with two humanoid robots developed by the company. The GR-2 stands 1.75 meters tall, weighs 63 kilograms, and is designed for heavy lifting and interactive training. It can carry more than 10 kilograms and is being developed for physical labor tasks across industries. The smaller N1 model focuses on endurance, and is capable of running for more than two hours on a single charge. It is also fully open-source, with all blueprints and code publicly available, offering developers around the world a platform for collaboration and experimentation. 'When a 1.75-meter-tall robot walks alongside a human on the red carpet, it's not just for show. It's a glimpse into what's possible,' said Gu. 'These robots have undergone tens of thousands of hours of testing across various terrains and scenarios.' Another crowd-pleasing moment came from Agibot's A2 robot, which performed a tai chi routine while explaining the martial art in real time. The 1.69-meter-tall robot moved with surprising fluidity, drawing applause from the audience. Ti Gong Agibot's humanoid robot plays tai chi on the red carpet. 'The pace of development is incredible,' said Wang Chuang, Agibot's general product line president. 'Last year, some robots still stumbled while walking. This year, they're performing. The red carpet is a perfect stage to show how fast we're advancing.' The company has hundreds of humanoid robots deployed in real-world settings, with each unit produced on a standardized manufacturing line – 'ready to use, like a car,' he added. This year's red carpet also featured an upgraded AI-powered experience using XR. As guests walked, their movements were merged live with dynamic virtual environments – from an immersive 'brain universe' to surreal, aurora-lit dreamscapes – each reflecting the creativity and innovation behind their work. Ti Gong A purple ocean where a huge whale is swimming appears at the site when Jo Quinton-Tulloch, director of the UK's National Science and Media Museum, and Ni Minjing, director of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, walk on the red carpet. Ti Gong Ni Minjing, director of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and Quinton-Tulloch, director of the UK's National Science and Media Museum. The event drew a diverse crowd: top scientists, start-up founders, science influencers, and young inventors. International guests included Jo Quinton-Tulloch, director of the UK's National Science and Media Museum, and Cho Sook-kyoung, president of the Network for the Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST). One emotional highlight saw neuroscientist Mu-Ming Poo and cell biologist Yuan Junying encounter AI-generated younger versions of themselves. Yuan embraced her 18-year-old self and said: 'I want to tell my 18-year-old self that you've made the right choice. That's something I truly believe.' Ti Gong Xu Jian, deputy director of the university's School of Media and Communication, unveils the 'Global Urban Science Communication Capacity Index 2025.' The report assessed 40 major cities across six continents, ranking New York first, followed by London and Boston. Other Chinese cities included Beijing (7th), Hong Kong (12th), Taipei (22nd), Shenzhen (23rd), Hangzhou (25th), and Guangzhou (26th). The index mainly looks at how well research institutions, companies, governments, and media share and communicate science with the public. New York leads by excelling across scientific outreach, organized communication, and public engagement. London and Boston follow closely, thanks to their vibrant scientific communities and diverse communication channels. Shanghai's high ranking reflects rapid growth in science communication. It leads in offline public participation (1st), ranks fourth in media-driven outreach, and fifth in scientists' communication impact. Zeng emphasized the PCST 2027's vision. 'We want this conference to bring science closer to everyday life,' he said. 'By building an innovative science communication network across the Yangtze River Delta, Shanghai aims to become a global hub for science communication and innovation. 'This will strengthen China's influence worldwide and inspire more people, especially youth, to engage with science and become future scientists.' READ SOURCE
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
After the space race, China wants to win in humanoid robots
STORY: On the outskirts of Shanghai, dozens of humanoid robots are hard at work - steaming shirts, getting dressed, making sandwiches - for up to 17 hours a day. But this isn't a factory floor… yet. It's a data lab run by Chinese startup AgiBot – and it's part of China's race to lead the global humanoid revolution and transform the way we live, work and play. Yao Maoqing is a partner at the company. :: Yao Maoqing, President of AgiBot 'We want to use general purpose robots to create unlimited productivity. Just imagine that one day in our own robot factory, our robots are assembling themselves.' Chinese humanoids are already performing increasingly complex feats like somersaults and running a half-marathon. President Xi Jinping recently inspected Agibot's products at a lab in Shanghai. And his visit highlights Beijing's long-term strategy – using humanoids to counter U.S. tariffs, an aging population and slowing economic growth. For the first time, Reuters is reporting details about how China's technological advances are allowing already impressive hardware to be paired with the software needed to make these robots economically viable. Here, the prowess of homegrown artificial intelligence platforms like DeepSeek is being combined with abundant government support. Reuters spoke to more than a dozen people - from robot makers and investors to analysts and users - who say the breakthroughs are moving robots from spectacle to solution. And could revolutionize China's manufacturing supremacy as it competes with the U.S. The Chinese government plans to build its edge by focusing on data training and the sophistication of its AI models. And authorities are handing out generous subsidies or free office space for humanoid firms. Over $20 billion has been allocated to the sector over the past year. The government is also a key buyer, according to a Reuters review of tender documents. State procurement of humanoid robots and related tech jumped to 214 million yuan in 2024 from 4.7 million the year before. The Chinese government didn't respond to questions about its role in supporting the development of humanoid robots. There has also been an explosion of new firms in the sector. In 2024 alone, 31 Chinese companies unveiled 36 competing humanoid models. U.S. companies presented eight – according to Morgan Stanley. The nation's clearest advantage though is its domination of humanoid hardware. Up to 90% of robot parts can be made locally – so Chinese firms can scale quickly. Current units can cost around $35,000 but three manufacturers told Reuters they predict costs to halve, perhaps within a year. Rui Ma is a tech analyst. :: Rui Ma, China tech analyst "The way the Chinese government looks at it is that human robotics can be the next EV industry where by investing in the entire manufacturing supply chain, you can come up with a product that is better, cheaper and globally exportable from China." But the rise of humanoids has sparked concerns for the current workforce. One expert warned up to 70% of China's manufacturing jobs could be at risk… And that could lead to a steep decline in social security contributions. The chairman of domestic AI firm iFlytek has suggested creating an unemployment insurance program for workers replaced by robots. While one industry professional told Reuters that its prototypes were targeting the boring, repetitive or dangerous jobs that humans don't want to do. Beijing though sees the technology as key to plugging labor shortages in areas such as elderly care. Demand is only increasing as China's 1.4 billion population ages.
South China Morning Post
25-03-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Chinese tech giant Tencent joins latest investment round in Shanghai robotics start-up Agibot
China's video gaming and social media giant Tencent Holdings has joined the latest round of investors in humanoid robotics start-up Agibot, in a fresh example of a China Big Tech firm betting on the robotics industry. Advertisement The Shanghai-based firm, also known as Zhiyuan Robotics, confirmed that the new financing round also included money from Lanchi Ventures, Longcheer Technology, Wolong and Zhuhai Huafa Group. It did not specify the investment amounts, but according to Chinese corporate database Tianyancha, the company's registered capital has increased to 80.46 million yuan (US$11.1 million) from 76.37 million yuan. Robots, particularly the humanoid kind, have become one of the hottest investment areas in China as venture capital firms, supply chain partners and deep-pocketed tech giants jostle to invest in leading start-ups. Agibot has become a rising star in China's robotics industry partly thanks to its strong founding team, which includes Peng Zhihui, a former recruit from Huawei Technologies' 'Genius Youth' programme, and Yan Weixin, a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. A robot from Agibot is seen during the Global Developer Conference in Shanghai on February 21, 2025. Photo: AFP The firm's CEO and chairman Deng Taihua, formerly vice-president and head of computing products at Huawei, recently took on the role of legal representative – a move described by the company as 'a routine change', without providing further details.
