The 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games opened Thursday in Beijing, and will run through Sunday. Around 70 universities from across China have brought robots they have developed, designed, or modified to compete. 

Beijing Polytechnic University's "Little Giant" will compete in solo dance, plus 400-meter and 1,500-meter races. "These events are all about balance and stability. We want it to run fast, stay steady, and dance with style," said Qiu Zhaopeng of the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. The team has optimized joint control, adjusted motors and sensors, and given the robot a bionic body structure with flexible joints, allowing natural arm swings, stable walking, and nimble moves.

"Little Giant" made its debut earlier in April, charming crowds at the world's first humanoid half marathon in Beijing. Since then, the team has modified it to be eight centimeters taller without adding weight, making it faster and more efficient. The team also lightened its frame and improved cooling with thermal gel and fans to ensure reliable long-term operation.

Other teams are bringing their own innovations. The Lingzhi team from China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing) will compete in hotel-service challenges with a 1.5-meter-tall robot that has 23 joints, can lift 5 kilograms with one arm, and handle various gripping tasks. 

Beijing Information Science and Technology University (BISTU)'s robot "Twisting BISTU" will perform a dance routine with Wing Chun moves. A total of 192 university teams and three from Beijing high schools will compete in the games.