Beijing’s groundbreaking robot half-marathon is redefining the future of artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics. In this extraordinary event, over 300 humanoid robots competed alongside human runners in a 21-kilometer race, serving as a real-world testing ground for speed, endurance, and autonomous navigation. Unlike earlier attempts, nearly 40% of the robots operated fully autonomously, marking a major leap in AI capability. The event highlights how innovations developed in competition—such as advanced cooling systems and mobility algorithms—can accelerate mass production and real-world deployment. Experts say the rapid improvement in robot performance is shortening the timeline for commercialization, making humanoid robots more practical and affordable. This race is not just a competition—it’s a glimpse into a future where robots could transform industries from manufacturing to logistics. COURTEST – CGTN