Key facts
- China is deploying 24-hour AI robot police in strategic cities to address public safety personnel shortages.
- Robot police are performing tasks including traffic control and surveillance.
- Drones are being used for delivery services, with Meituan aiming to improve delivery times.
- China's government sees AI as crucial for military advancement and compensating for a shrinking workforce.
- The country's robotics market is projected to more than double by 2028.
China is significantly expanding its use of automation in public services and daily life, deploying 24-hour robot police and drones as part of a national strategy to address demographic challenges and bolster its technological capabilities.
In major cities like Anhui, Chengdu, and Hangzhou, AI-powered robot police are being introduced to handle tasks such as traffic control and issuing safety warnings. The 'Intelligent Police R001' in Wuhu, Anhui Province, performs repetitive traffic management duties, freeing up human officers for more complex judgments. Additionally, robot dogs equipped with surveillance cameras are being utilized by special police forces, as seen in Beijing's commercial districts.
Beyond public safety, automation is evident in logistics, with Meituan employing drones for deliveries in Shenzhen, aiming for faster service times. This push into 'embodied AI' is seen as a core component of China's 'Made in China 2025' strategy and a response to a shrinking workforce and a desire to circumvent US-led sanctions on technology.
Industry analysts anticipate substantial growth in China's robotics market, with projections indicating it could more than double from $47 billion in 2024 to $108 billion by 2028. The government is actively encouraging domestic innovation, with Guangdong province, including Shenzhen, receiving new funding for innovation centers. Humanoid robots are also gaining visibility, highlighted by performances and races, signaling China's ambition to lead in this emerging field.