Step into the Future: Beijing's Robot Mall Opens for Business!

A revolutionary robot shop has just opened its doors in Beijing, showcasing a stunning array of over 100 types of robots. From mechanical butlers to lifelike replicas of famous figures like Albert Einstein, Robot Mall is setting a bold precedent in the world of robotics retail. Launched on a Friday, the store is one of the first in China to cater to the general public by offering humanoid and consumer-oriented robots.

Comparing the shop to a car dealership, the store provides not only sales but also spare parts and maintenance services, emphasizing the country’s push toward integrating robots into everyday life. Wang Yifan, the store director, highlighted that for robots to become household fixtures, reliance on robotics companies alone is insufficient.

The robots on display cater to a wide range of customers, with prices ranging from 2,000 yuan ($278, £207) to several million yuan, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Visitors can engage with a diverse selection of robots, including playful robot dogs and intellectual chess-playing robots.

Additionally, the mall features a section where customers can obtain replacement parts and professional maintenance services for their robots. Located near a themed restaurant, diners can enjoy meals prepared by mechanical chefs and served by robotic waitstaff, further enriching the robotic experience.

This grand opening aligns perfectly with the commencement of the World Robot Conference, which will showcase more than 1,500 exhibits from over 200 local and international robotics companies. The Chinese government has shown a firm commitment to the robotics and AI sectors, with over $20 billion in subsidies over the past year, and plans to establish a 1 trillion yuan fund specifically for AI and robotics startups.

Furthermore, Beijing is gearing up to host the inaugural World Humanoid Robot Games later this year, featuring competitions in various disciplines such as track and field, dance, and football, with teams from over 20 countries set to participate.

The emergence of Robot Mall and the surrounding events signals a turning point in how robots are perceived and integrated into daily life in China, marking a significant step toward a more automated future.