China rolls out humanoid robot police in major city

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China is using a team of human-like robots to control crowds at a popular tourist destination, showcasing its advancements in robotics and bringing it closer to creating robots like those seen in science fiction films.

During the busy May Day holiday in Hangzhou, a popular tourist city in China, officials put 15 robots to work around West Lake, according to the Global Times.

I was really impressed with how these robots helped out around town! They weren’t just fancy tech; they actually assisted the police by guiding people and cyclists, politely warning folks when they broke rules, and even helping tourists find their way. It was amazing to see them making a real difference!

Robot traffic cops deployed in China

These human-like robots, often called a “robot traffic police squad,” work with regular officers but are currently only used for simple jobs.

These robotic officers aren’t for catching criminals or handing out tickets. Instead, they help tourists find their way and keep traffic flowing smoothly. The goal is to let human police officers focus on more serious crimes and important problems.

Robots are starting to help keep roads safe. China recently put its first group of smart traffic robots to work in the city of Hangzhou on May 1st. These fifteen robots are designed to assist police officers and make the roads safer and more convenient for the many tourists who visit the area.

— China pulse 🇨🇳 (@Eng_china5) May 2, 2026

This new initiative aligns with Hangzhou’s broader efforts to become a smart city. The city already uses AI systems, like ‘City Brain,’ to improve traffic management by analyzing live data from cameras and sensors.

China has made significant strides in robotics and artificial intelligence recently. They’re working on technologies like self-driving cars, and even hosted the first-ever robot martial arts competition. Notably, a Chinese-made humanoid robot recently broke the world record for completing a half-marathon.

Many people worry about how artificial intelligence and robots will change the job market. Recently, a court in China made a ruling supporting a worker who was replaced by automation, stating that companies can’t legally fire employees simply to use AI instead.

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2026-05-04 17:18