Shanghai Publishes Governance Guidelines for Humanoid Robots, Calls for Risk Controls and International Collaboration
Shanghai, known for its modern skyline and bustling economy, has taken a significant step in shaping the future of robotics with the publication of China’s first governance guidelines for humanoid robots. The guidelines, revealed at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), aim to ensure that these advanced machines do not pose a threat to human security and preserve human dignity.
The guidelines call for makers of humanoid robots to implement risk controls, emergency response systems, and ethical training for users. These measures are crucial in ensuring the safe and responsible development and use of humanoid robots in various industries. The document, crafted by five Shanghai-based industry organizations, emphasizes the need for international collaboration in governing humanoid robots.
During the conference, tech giant Tesla unveiled its second-generation humanoid robot, Optimus, showcasing the potential of these machines in the future. While Optimus has yet to enter full-scale production, its development signifies the rapid progress being made in the robotics sector. Other Chinese exhibitors also displayed their humanoid robots, highlighting the country’s commitment to becoming a global leader in this field.
One notable example is Shenzhen-based Leju Robot, which presented its Kuavo robot running on an operating system derived from Huawei Technology’s OpenHarmony platform. China has set ambitious goals for mass production of humanoid robots by 2025 and aims to achieve global leadership by 2027, as outlined in a plan by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
With humanoid robots expected to drive economic growth in China and revolutionize various industries including healthcare, home services, agriculture, and logistics, the country is actively investing in this cutting-edge technology. Chinese companies have been ramping up their efforts to compete with their US counterparts in critical areas like AI, as demonstrated by the significant patent filings in recent years.
The publication of governance guidelines for humanoid robots in Shanghai signals a significant development in the world of robotics, emphasizing the importance of responsible innovation and collaboration. As the sector continues to evolve, it will be crucial for companies and governments to work together to ensure the safe and ethical use of these advanced machines. Shanghai’s leadership in this area demonstrates China’s commitment to shaping the future of robotics in a responsible and sustainable manner.