China is making significant strides in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), with companies like Unitree leading the charge. The country’s efforts are driven by a desire to dominate emerging industries, address labor shortages, and build a high-tech future.
Unitree, founded in 2016, has become one of China’s most prominent robotics start-ups. Its millennial founder, Wang Xingxing, developed a robot dog prototype that earned him media attention and laid the foundation for the company. Unitree now produces 60% of the world’s four-legged robots, showcasing its futuristic technology at high-profile events like the Winter Olympics and Super Bowl.
The company’s success is attributed to the rapid development of AI technology, which has sped up its robot-training process. Unitree’s business model is built on competitive pricing, with affordable options for consumers and businesses. The company’s humanoid robot costs $16,000, a fraction of the cost of similar robots from other manufacturers.
However, Unitree’s relationship with the Chinese military has raised concerns. The company denies selling to the military, but some worry that its technology could be used in urban combat operations. In contrast, the US military is exploring ways to incorporate robotics into modern warfare, although at a slower pace than China.
Wang Xingxing envisions a future where robots can liberate people from manual labor and help humans solve mundane tasks. He believes that robots will enable people to pursue their passions and interests without being tied to work. While some experts express concerns about the military implications of Chinese robotics, Wang remains focused on his company’s potential to drive innovation and progress.
As China continues to push the boundaries of robotics and AI, its impact on industries, economies, and societies will be significant. With companies like Unitree at the forefront, China is well-positioned to shape the future of automation and innovation.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/03/29/china-unitree-ai-robotics-revolution