China’s Asian Games, which were postponed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, have finally arrived in Hangzhou. As athletes, journalists, technical officials, and spectators flock to the city, they are greeted by an awe-inspiring sight. The unofficial home of China’s tech industry, Hangzhou showcases an astonishing array of robots and mind-boggling gadgets that serve, amuse, and even police the visitors.
In this tech utopia, autonomous bug zappers effectively eliminate pesky mosquitoes by imitating human body temperature and breathing. These machines roam the vast Games Village, ensuring a pest-free environment for everyone. Meanwhile, robot “dogs” patrol power-supply facilities, showcasing their agility through running, jumping, and even flipping. Miniature versions of these robots even engage in lively dances. And there’s more—a bright-yellow android mesmerizes spectators by playing beautiful melodies on the piano.
The technological wonders do not cease there. Driverless minibusses effortlessly transport visitors throughout the nearby city of Shaoxing, where baseball and softball venues await. Athletes seeking a challenge can put their reflexes to the test against a table-tennis playing robot named “Pongbot.” This ping pong enthusiast will surely push even the most seasoned players to their limits.
Beyond the sporting events, the tech extravaganza continues. A blushing plastic-and-metal receptionist welcomes customers at a makeshift bank in the massive media center. With a number pad and card slots integrated into its torso, this robot brings a touch of futuristic charm to daily transactions. Even the construction of the venues involved the assistance of construction robots, which organizers describe as “very cute, with unique skills.”
The emergence of Hangzhou as a haven for tech startups is not a coincidence. With a population of 12 million people, this city in Eastern China has become synonymous with innovation, particularly in the robotics sector. Local companies such as DEEP Robotics are determined to rival industry leaders in the United States and Japan. At a nearby business park, DEEP Robotics staff put their cutting-edge models through rigorous tests. One four-legged bot navigates construction rubble while another gracefully ascends a rain-slicked pedestrian bridge. The real world and the realm of technology briefly intersect as a curious dog sniffs its robotic counterpart, blurring the lines between the natural and the artificial.
The influence of technology extends beyond the Games and business parks into the daily lives of Hangzhou’s residents. Office workers now enjoy the convenience of lunchtime vending machines that not only provide steamed meals but also ensure the perfect serving temperature. These machines, crafted by Kuaie Fresh, even collect data on customer preferences, sparking concerns about data privacy in other countries. Nevertheless, some customers are impressed by the machine’s culinary skills, with one individual stating, “Its cooking skills are better than most people who don’t know how to cook.”
The Role of Machines in Society
The Asian Games’ tech showcase is a testament to the global race to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence. AI-enabled humanoid robots made a striking appearance at a UN summit earlier in the year, boldly claiming their potential to govern society more effectively than humans. However, the rise of industrial robots has fueled concerns worldwide that these machines could render millions of jobs obsolete. In response, Qian Xiaoyu, a DEEP Robotics executive, assures that robots are not meant to replace humans but rather serve as tools to assist them.
The Impact of COVID Policies
Amidst all the technological marvels, one gadget stands out: a temperature-taking robot designed to detect signs of fever and remind visitors to wear masks. However, due to China’s decision to abandon its strict zero-COVID policy, this particular gadget may not be as vital during the Asian Games as initially anticipated.
As the Asian Games unfold in Hangzhou, the prominence of technology is undeniable. From gigantic signs adorned with humanoid robot mascots to the intricate gadgets that patrol, perform, and entertain, China’s tech domination takes center stage. The realm of machines may not replace humans entirely, but with their tremendous potential and ever-growing presence, they undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the world.
Leave a Reply