Humanoid robots are becoming a popular form of public entertainment in Shanghai, China, as the country pushes to bring artificial intelligence into daily life. A robot "carnival" held by an R&D center on the outskirts of the city drew curious families on a public holiday, showcasing everything from mini robotic dogs attempting handstands to remote-controlled robots dueling with water beads. The event took place in a hub housing over 100 companies researching and manufacturing robotic technologies, many building specialized bots for practical tasks like transporting heavy loads or inspecting sewage pipes. While today's displays were mostly for show, they serve an important purpose: inviting the public to experience robots up close. This aligns with China's broader strategy, as embodied AI was a key facet of the country's latest five-year plan. Nearly 90% of the more than 13,000 two-armed, two-legged robots delivered globally last year were made in China. Prominent robotics companies are building humanoids that "can free people from physical work and mundane chores," according to Yang Duan, a product manager at Dex Force, which exhibited a model capable of making coffee. Despite challenges like safety concerns, high prices, and short battery life, Chinese firms continue pushing forward. In Beijing, bipedal robots are even running half-marathons. The PR campaign appears to be winning over crowds, as applause erupted at the carnival's main tent where a blinged-out humanoid performed drunken boxing while another executed a front flip. Small robotic lions lined up for their turn as the audience chanted: "More, more, more."

You Xiaoying is a London-based freelance journalist focusing on China.