A humanoid robot became the star attraction at Beijing's Galaxy Plaza this week, demonstrating fluid dance routines that blurred the line between machinery and artistry. The 1.65-meter-tall android performed daily shows featuring hip-hop, contemporary, and traditional Chinese dance elements, drawing crowds of shoppers and tech enthusiasts.
Developed by a Shenzhen-based robotics firm, the prototype represents significant advancements in China's artificial intelligence and servo motor technologies. "This isn't just programmed movement – the system adapts to music tempo and crowd reactions in real time," explained lead engineer Zhang Wei during a demonstration.
The innovation has sparked discussions about robotics applications in retail and entertainment sectors across Asia. While some visitors expressed amazement at the precise movements, others playfully challenged the machine to dance-offs, testing its responsive capabilities.
This development follows increased investment in China's service robotics industry, which grew 23% year-on-year in 2025 according to Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reports. Analysts predict such technologies could reshape customer experiences in malls, airports, and cultural venues throughout the region.
