China’s Tiangong Ultra humanoid robot has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing the 100-metre sprint in just 8.86 seconds at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing.
The robot, developed by the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center, recorded the time during the semifinals of the large-size robot division on Tuesday. It improved significantly on its earlier 9.39-second performance recorded during the opening-day heats.
Faster Than Usain Bolt’s Record
Tiangong Ultra’s latest time is faster than Usain Bolt’s human 100-metre world record of 9.58 seconds, set in 2009.
The achievement highlights the rapid progress being made in humanoid robotics, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, motors, sensors and balance control.
Rapid Improvement in Just One Year
The robot’s progress has been striking. At last year’s humanoid robot games, Tiangong Ultra completed the 100 metres in 21.50 seconds.
Its latest sub-nine-second performance demonstrates how quickly robotic movement and hardware technology are advancing.
Robots Compete Across 51 Events
The World Humanoid Robot Games feature more than 2,000 robots from 666 teams competing across 51 disciplines.
The competitions include athletics, football, dancing and tasks designed to test robots in practical and industrial environments.
China Pushes Humanoid Robotics
China has identified humanoid robotics as a strategic emerging industry, with companies and policymakers investing heavily in AI-powered machines.
The technology is being developed for potential applications in manufacturing, logistics, industrial operations and consumer services.
More Records on the Track
Tiangong’s development team has also reported strong performances in other events, including the 400-metre and 1,500-metre races, as well as a high jump.
Another Chinese humanoid robot, Lightning, has also recorded a sub-nine-second 100-metre performance, highlighting the growing competition in the field.
