In a landmark move, Shanghai has introduced China’s first governance guidelines for humanoid robots, underscoring the importance of risk management, human safety, and international cooperation. The guidelines were unveiled during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), a significant event that drew tech giants and innovators from around the globe.
The newly published document, crafted by five prominent Shanghai-based industry organizations including the Shanghai Law Society and the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Industry Association, sets a robust framework for the development and deployment of humanoid robots. The guidelines mandate that manufacturers ensure their robots do not pose a threat to human security and that they effectively safeguard human dignity. Additionally, they call for the implementation of risk warning procedures and emergency response systems.
The guidelines also stress the ethical and lawful use of these advanced machines, recommending that users receive proper training. This initiative aims to foster a responsible approach to the integration of humanoid robots into various sectors.
A significant aspect of the guidelines is the call for global cooperation. The document advocates for the establishment of a global governance framework and an international think tank dedicated to overseeing the development and use of humanoid robots. This move is seen as a step towards creating a unified approach to the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving technology.
The WAIC showcased a variety of robotic innovations, with Tesla drawing considerable attention by displaying the second generation of its humanoid robot, Optimus. Despite being behind glass and not interacting with visitors, Optimus, equipped with Tesla’s neural network and computer vision technology, highlighted the cutting-edge advancements in the field. Most of the 18 humanoid robots on display were from Chinese companies, underscoring the nation’s rapid progress in robotics.
Shenzhen-based Leju Robot presented its Kuavo robot, which operates on an operating system derived from Huawei Technology’s OpenHarmony. This reflects China’s broader ambition to achieve technological self-sufficiency and leadership in AI and robotics.
China has set ambitious goals for the humanoid robot sector. According to a plan published by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) last November, the country aims to achieve mass production of humanoid robots by 2025 and to lead the sector globally by 2027. The MIIT envisions these robots becoming a significant driver of economic growth, with applications spanning healthcare, home services, agriculture, and logistics.