A Chinese humanoid robot posted a faster time than Usain Bolt’s 100-meter world record, underscoring the rapid development of robotic technology while also exposing the machines’ continuing struggles with stability and control.
Tiangong Ultra, developed by Beijing-based X-Humanoid, clocked 9.39 seconds in the 100-meter event at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing on August 22, according to reports.
The time was quicker than Bolt’s 9.58-second mark, which the Jamaican sprint legend established in 2009 and remains the official human world record.
Another Chinese-built humanoid, Lightning from smartphone manufacturer Honor, also went under the 9.58-second barrier by finishing the final in 9.47 seconds. It had earlier recorded 9.32 seconds during a test run.
However, the performances also showed that robotic speed does not necessarily translate into race-day reliability.
Tiangong Ultra reportedly lost its balance near the finish line and veered away from the track. Lightning likewise encountered difficulties after completing its run and needed assistance to leave the competition area.
The Beijing competition features more than 2,000 robots representing 666 teams from 16 countries. It includes 51 events covering sports such as sprinting, football and table tennis, as well as challenges designed to measure robots’ ability to perform practical tasks.
China has identified humanoid robotics as a strategic technology sector, with domestic companies developing machines for industrial, logistics and consumer applications.
The country’s progress has also emerged as part of the broader technological competition between China and the United States. Washington announced restrictions in July on imports of foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots, citing security and cybersecurity concerns. (Adrian Co)
