Chinese humanoid robot breaks Usain Bolt's 100m record at World Robot Games

Humanoid robots showcased impressive speed and competitive spirit at Beijing's World Robot Games, with one Chinese model breaking Usain Bolt's 100-meter dash record. The robot, named Tiangong Ultra, completed the sprint in 9.39 seconds, surpassing Bolt's 2009 record of 9.58 seconds. This achievement, highlighted by Chinese state media, was followed by another record-breaking performance in the 400-meter race, where the same humanoid model finished in 38.15 seconds, nearly five seconds faster than the previous record.

Dozens of robots, developed by various entities including a local government-backed research center, competed in events ranging from athletics and boxing to football and martial arts at Beijing's Olympic speed skating arena. While some robots demonstrated remarkable athletic feats, others provided entertainment through their malfunctions, with many failing to start or moving at a walking pace. Spectators found amusement in these moments, as well as in a boxing robot that stumbled and folded over the ropes.

Despite the technological advancements on display, some attendees expressed a desire to see robots compete directly against humans to truly gauge their capabilities. "It's not a test of intelligence, or hiring someone to do household tasks or act as live-in help," remarked spectator Hou Yali, suggesting that current competitions primarily focus on speed and physical tasks rather than broader human-like intelligence or utility.

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We’ll be able to see more clearly whether machines can surpass humans. Right now, this is just running, just a competition of speed. It’s not a test of intelligence, or hiring someone to do household tasks or act as live-in help.