5 sources·Technology

Humanoid Robots Compete in Historic Half-Marathon in Beijing

Humanoid robots ran alongside human participants in Beijing's first-ever Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon, showcasing technological advancements in robotics.

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  2. No sweat: Humanoid robots run Chinese half-marathon alongside flesh-and-blood runners

    While flesh-and-blood participants followed conventional rules, the 20 teams fielding machines in the Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon competed under tailored guidelines, which included battery swap pit stops.

    No sweat: Humanoid robots run Chinese half-marathon alongside flesh-and-blood runners

    ABC NewsABC News·9h
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. No sweat: Humanoid robots run a Chinese half-marathon alongside flesh-and-blood competitors

    The bipedal robots of various makes and sizes navigated the 21.1-kilometer (13.1-mile) course supported by teams of human navigators, operators, and engineers, in what event organizers say was a first.

    No sweat: Humanoid robots run a Chinese half-marathon alongside flesh-and-blood competitors

    Associated PressAssociated Press·9h
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  4. Stumbling and Overheating, Most Humanoid Robots Fail to Finish Half Marathon in Beijing

    While the event did generate a lot of interest and pride among Chinese people—many human runners stopped to take selfies with Tiangong Ultra when they saw it—it also showed the reality and limitations of China’s humanoid robot industry.

    Stumbling and Overheating, Most Humanoid Robots Fail to Finish Half Marathon in Beijing

    WiredWired·10h
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  5. Humanoid Robots Run a Chinese Half-Marathon Alongside Humans

    The bipedal robots of various makes and sizes navigated the 13.1-mile course supported by teams of human navigators, operators, and engineers in what event organizers say was a first.

    Humanoid Robots Run a Chinese Half-Marathon Alongside Humans

    NewsmaxNewsmax·12h
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
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  1. Straight Arrow News
  2. ABC News
  3. Associated Press
  4. Wired
  5. Newsmax
Updated: Apr 19th, 2025, 6:22 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

On April 19, 2025, humanoid robots competed in Beijing's first Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon, supported by human teams. The Sky Project Ultra robot triumphed, finishing in 2:40:42. Participants faced unique guidelines, including battery swaps, while human runners adhered to traditional race rules. The event marks a significant moment in China's ambitious robotics sector, emphasizing advancements in humanoid capabilities amid ongoing technical challenges.

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