This Round Table discussion delves into the rapidly growing field of humanoid robots in China. The conversation highlights the motivations behind the shift towards humanoid designs, particularly their ability to navigate environments built for humans. It also addresses the massive investments—amounting to billions of Yuan—flowing into this sector and the swift technological progress that could lead to widespread adoption in the coming years. While the potential benefits of humanoid robots in various professional settings are acknowledged, concerns about their ethical implications, especially regarding safety and the "uncanny valley" effect in home environments, are also raised. Additionally, the discussion points out China's strengths in manufacturing, alongside the challenges it faces in developing the software and data infrastructure needed to unlock the full potential of humanoid robots.
