Beijing, China recently opened the Robot Mall, a new type of retail store dedicated entirely to humanoid and consumer-oriented robots. Opened on Friday, the establishment coincides with the launch of the five-day World Robot Conference, underscoring China’s commitment to advancing the robotics industry.
Located in the heart of Beijing, Robot Mall stands out as one of the first stores in the country to offer a wide range of robotic products. Shoppers have more than a hundred different kinds of robots to pick from. They’ll find possibilities that vary from whimsical theatrical canines to cutting edge chess opponents. Prices for these robots range from $5,000 to $500,000. They begin at 2,000 yuan ($278) and can even reach upward of three million yuan for top-of-the-line models.
The store showcases more than 200 brands, both domestic and international, reflecting the growing interest in robotics across various sectors. This broad international representation emphasizes how global robotics innovation has become. There, visitors can get a rare dining experience at a popular themed restaurant located immediately adjacent to the mall. Over there, robots hand out great food that’s all made by robot cooks!
According to Wang Yifan, director of Robot Mall, it is critical we expand access to robotics outside of traditional manufacturers.
“If robots are to enter thousands of households, relying solely on robotics companies is not enough,” – Wang Yifan
This declaration fits into China’s larger plan to become the global leader in robotics and artificial intelligence. The Chinese government has announced plans for a substantial 1 trillion yuan fund aimed at supporting AI and robotics start-ups. Over the last year, public subsidies for the robotics industry have exceeded $20 billion. This enormous investment cements China’s position as the premiere global powerhouse in robotics development.
The World Robot Conference highlights this burgeoning field, featuring teams from over 20 countries competing in various events such as track and field, dance, and football. Furthermore, Beijing is preparing to host the inaugural World Humanoid Robot Games from August 14 to 17, showcasing advancements in humanoid robotics.
Robot Mall serves enthusiasts looking for more realistic replicas of historical figures, such as Albert Einstein. They provide mechanical butlers to perform all the boring household tasks for you. This new store is part of their long-term mission to make robotics a more enjoyable and approachable subject for the public.