Humanoid computers took center stage in a first-of-its-kind boxing competition in Hangzhou, China. The event, which was a part of the China Media Group ( CMG) World Robot Competition – Mecha Fighting Series, took place on May 25 and marked the entry for robotic fighters into a full-fledged combat sport. Unitree Robotics, a Chinese technology company known for its cutting-edge human systems, created the computers. According to Asia Times, four Unitree G1 computers, each 132 inches tall and weighing 35 kilograms, participated in the battle. The match was broadcast on China Central Television (CCTV ) using remote control by human trainers using joysticks. While the occasion sparked a lot of people ‘ interest, one social media users made the humorous observation that the referee in the ring is the “whom I find most perplexing” in the match. Although the movements displayed outstanding balance and speed for machines, they were more like gentle pushes than actual hits. The suit was a part of a larger effort to demonstrate and examine the development of AI and robotics in active environments. A Unitree machine was seen in a popular video reacting violently to its operators during a video earlier this year, raising safety concerns. A machine reportedly charged toward a group at Tianjin’s Spring Festival Gala in another situation, alarming visitors. Such incidents have sparked growing worry about AI safety and the potential risks of advanced technology, including a recent incident at Tesla’s shop in Texas where a robot reportedly injured a contractor. Experts have cited application errors and inadequate tests as typical causes, highlighting the need for stringent quality control in AI growth.
