China: Robots flex their muscles at World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing.

Storyline Robots flex their muscles at World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing Faster, stronger and more autonomous. That's what humanoid robots are demonstrating at the Second World Humanoid Robot Games here in Beijing. Chen Jiaqi, Reporter: "Behind me is the 100-meter obstacle race final, a true trial of speed and ability." Robots must navigate bridges, slopes and platforms — testing their balance, coordination and ability to overcome obstacles. Complex challenges expose weaknesses in algorithms and joint control, giving developers a roadmap for the next round of upgrades. Kang Yu, Manager, Capital Markets, Shoucheng Holdings Limited: "Investors are also looking at where robots make mistakes in these competitions. Those failure points could point to where the industry needs to focus next." The progress is clear. One robot ran 100 meters in 9.39 seconds, beating Usain Bolt's world record. Another jumped 2.88 meters, also surpassing the human record. But speed and strength are only part of the challenge. Yang Chengxi, Reporter: "China is hosting a sports competition for humanoid robots. But apart from the usual running and jumping...nothing says Chinese robot more than a bit of Taichi." Unlike in events where robots are already superhuman, there are other areas where they still need to work — like balance. ...and precision. That's why. Yang Chengxi, Reporter: They're also competing in these! This is a competition specifically for robot hands. Developer: "The robot has to weigh out 20 grams of salt within a limited amount of time, with an accuracy of plus or minus 0.5 grams." Other robots are competing in tasks like building blocks, opening bottles and even picking up beans with tweezers. Yang Chengxi, Reporter: "And if you think about it, that's one of the biggest reasons we're building robots in a human shape in the first place: so that they can use human tools. And it all comes down to the hands." So when will the humanoid robot industry reach its next turning point? Analysts say there is no easy timeline. But the day that robots enter people's homes should not be far off. Kang Yu, Manager, Capital Markets, Shoucheng Holdings Limited: "There are already some impressive demos for home applications. So I think it's quite possible that, by next year, we could start seeing some humanoid robots gradually entering people's homes." Chen Jiaqi, Reporter: "Robot capability at this stage presents a mixed picture: They're stronger than humans in some areas, but still seriously lagging in others. This world competition gives audiences a taste of each — and gives developers strong incentives to do better next time." [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]