Beyond Science Fiction: Robotics' Leap into Daily Life
The 2025 World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing wasn't just another tech expo; it showcased the accelerated transformation of robotics from specialized tools into intelligent, embodied partners poised to reshape our world.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the WRC. Over the past decade, it has become "an innovation driven event," "a gathering to promote industry," "an exhibition for application promotion," and "a platform for international cooperation" in the global robotics field.
The WRC has driven breakthroughs in many aspects of robotics, particularly in technological innovation. More than 100 cutting-edge robotics products debuted at this year's event, nearly twice as many as last year, demonstrating the conference's growing role as a global stage for innovation.
The 10-year evolution of the WRC also parallels China's ascent as a global robotics innovation hub. Last year, China accounted for two-thirds of global robotics patent applications. A comprehensive range of proprietary core components for robotics has been established, and critical advancements have been made in robotics large models, intelligent collaborative control, and human-machine interaction.
The debut of state-of-the-art products, ranging from agile quadruped robots, rescue robots, and inspection robots, to cutting-edge catheter-shaped robots and robotic lawn mowers, also offered a glimpse into the latest trends of industrial development and application scenarios in robotics.
Robots now permeate a significant number of major economic sectors, transforming workflows, boosting efficiency, and creating new possibilities across various industries.
A major highlight of this year's expo was the blockbuster appearance of embodied intelligence. A record 50 humanoid robotics integrators showcased their latest innovations and industry solutions — the largest assembly ever seen at any robotics exhibition to date.
Meanwhile, a powerful consumerism trend has emerged. The inaugural E-Town Robot Consumption Festival, running alongside the WRC, bridges the gap between high-tech manufacturing and mainstream consumers. The push towards consumer markets signifies a maturation where robots transition from industrial assets to integrated elements of daily life.
The expo, therefore, crystallizes an exciting trajectory: robots are becoming smarter, more embodied, and increasingly woven into the societal fabric — from factories to homes. China's vibrant industrial ecosystem and focused initiatives are undeniably accelerating this global revolution.
As embodied intelligence moves from labs into logistics centers and living rooms, the robots of tomorrow are rapidly taking shape today, promising to reshape how we work, live and interact with technology. The future isn't just automated; it's embodied, intelligent, and arriving faster than anticipated.