Beijing Exhibition Highlights Tech Innovation
BEIJING: At a shopping mall in Beijing, a humanoid robot moves rhythmically to upbeat music, part of an exhibition showcasing the use of artificial intelligence to elevate China’s largest annual festival, the Lunar New Year.
This year’s eight-day holiday, a time when families reunite to feast, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company, is being infused with a modern technological twist, blending centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovations.
Located in the upscale Haidian district, the event—dubbed the “AI temple fair”—is a platform for local tech companies to display their latest creations. The exhibition is a celebration of China’s growing AI prowess and its integration into daily life.
“Robots can already do a lot—like taking things off shelves and making coffee,” said Sophia Wu, a 48-year-old housewife and retired engineer, as she wandered through the fair, surrounded by robotic assistants and automated baristas. “I’d love to have a robot to do all my chores, freeing up so much of my time,” she told news agency.
This week, a group of robots manufactured by Hangzhou-based Unitree Tech made headlines after performing a synchronized dance at China’s Spring Festival TV gala. The single robot at the mall, however, offered a simpler performance, gently swaying its hips and arms while staying grounded.
This robot, named Xiao Xin, is described as a “high-quality human imitation robot.” It’s capable of engaging in conversations and making subtle adjustments to its lifelike prosthetic face, which responded to visitors’ questions, adding an extra layer of interactivity.
In a nearby section, a curious visitor asked a life-sized humanoid dressed as China’s traditional wealth god what it had for breakfast. The robot, speaking in a deep baritone, responded: “This morning, I enjoyed a hearty breakfast with fresh fruit, fried eggs, and sweet bread. I wish for you to eat well and be happy every day in the new year.” Its sparkling crimson robe and swaying beard only added to the charm.
China is rapidly advancing in the AI race, with ambitions to lead the world in artificial intelligence by the end of the decade. The AI temple fair is a testament to how the country is integrating technology into cultural celebrations, offering a glimpse of the future while honoring its deep-rooted traditions.
