World News for Students of English

01-09-2025 15:00

The first World Humanoid Robot Games were held in Beijing, with participants from 16 countries, including the US, Germany, and Japan.

Robots competed in events such as athletics, football, dance, and martial arts. The competition was not only entertainment but also a way to test and improve robots’ decision-making, motor skills, and control systems that could later be applied in industries and homes. China aims to become a global leader in humanoid robotics and has set a goal of developing a world-class industry by 2027.

While the Games attracted international teams, they also served as a large-scale promotion for China’s robotics sector, which has received billions of dollars in investment. The event demonstrated both the challenges and potential of humanoid robots, from technical failures to impressive performances. Supporters argue that humanoid designs make it easier for robots to function in human environments, though critics question the need to copy human forms. For China, winning recognition and attracting investment may determine which robotics companies survive in this highly competitive field.

Difficult words: motor skills (the ability to control and coordinate your body’s movements), recognition (knowing someone or something because you saw or heard it before), competitive (involving rivalry between participants).

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