Technology: crowds flock to Beijing for robot games

Robots compete in the 100m race during the opening ceremony of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026 - Copyright © africanews Achmad Ibrahim/Copyright 2026 The AP. All rights reserved. China Sprinting and high jump were among the sports attempted by robots at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing. Some have even broken world records, including Usain Bolt's 100-meter sprint record. Those in the audience say that while they're unsettled by AI, they are intrigued by it nonetheless Li Yanfeng, a spectator, said, "at first, I wasn’t very accepting of artificial intelligence. I was even a bit resistant to it because of the possibility that it might replace or displace humans. But now that I see this development is unstoppable, I decided to come and take a look.” Others, meanwhile, say they are astonished by the robot's record-breaking feats, which also include a record for the high jump. Yang Shangzheng, another spectator, said, “these sports are perfectly normal for humans, but now robots can do them. I find it amazing.” Also in the audience are children as some parents are keen for them to learn more, given that AI looks like it's here to stay.'' This is the second edition of the games, and it will last for five days. You may also like