China flexes its robotics game with 'Kung Fu' androids

China has raised the bar again in the field of humanoid robotics. At this year's Spring Festival Gala, 'Kung Fu' robots stunned the world with their spectacular acrobatic prowess. The robots sprinted, danced, flipped and even ran up a wall before springing backwards into the air.

The machines were built by Hangzhou firm Unitree Robotics. Their routine included table vaults, single leg backflips and tight formation changes.

One sequence showed several robots charging at a temporary wall and pushing off it into a sharp, clean and precise backflip.

It was nothing like the lab demos you typically see online — rather a one-of-its-kind show that might leave your jaws dropped.

Founder Wang Xingxing said the team wanted to push the limits on a public stage. To achieve that, engineers ran vast numbers of simulations before testing in the real world.

The robots used upgraded cluster control systems. Dozens could move in sync with very minimal delay. An AI fusion localisation system combined internal sensors with 3D lidar. This allowed the machines to track their position even during fast, complex moves. Timing was refined to within a tenth of a second.

The leap from last year's similar event is mind-boggling. In 2025, similar robots shuffled on stage in floral coats. This year they sprinted and sparred with human performers.

While netizens are arguing whether the robots can do the everyday mundane chores, Wang argues that agility is the foundation of their robots, and a robot that can handle flips and external force can handle factory floors, warehouses or stairs.