Future Development of Robots and AI

On April 17, 2026, a main event themed “Intelligent Future” was held at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, focusing on the future of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). Experts gathered to share insights on the advancements and applications of these technologies.

Robots Evolving into New Intelligent Entities

Academician Yu Haibin, director of the Industrial Artificial Intelligence Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a report titled “Robots Leading a New Era of Technology.” He explained the development trajectory, basic components, and classifications of robotic technology, and provided a comprehensive analysis of the applications and future directions of robots across various fields.

Yu pointed out that with the deep integration of AI and intelligent manufacturing, robots are gradually breaking the boundaries of traditional automation equipment, transitioning into new intelligent entities with perception, cognition, and autonomous decision-making capabilities.

AI Transitioning to Future Partners

In another report titled “A Brief History of AI Evolution: Super Tool or Future Partner?” Senior Engineer Luo Yin from the Automation Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences discussed the evolution of AI technology from being a tool to becoming a collaborative partner.

Luo emphasized that with breakthroughs in large model technology and decision-making intelligence, AI is transforming from a “super tool” into a proactive collaborative “future partner.” This shift in human-machine relationships will have profound impacts on research, industry, and social life.

Technology Reshaping Production and Life

Industry experts believe that as robots evolve from “automated execution” to “autonomous intelligence,” and as AI transitions from a “super tool” to a “future partner,” technology is reshaping production and life in unprecedented ways.

The event, part of the “Science and China - Thousands of Academicians, Thousands of Popular Science” series, will continue to focus on more cutting-edge technology fields, gathering more academicians and industry experts to carry out high-quality popular science activities.

Nearly 300 representatives from industry, academia, research management, and youth participated in this robotics and AI-themed event, engaging in interactive discussions with the experts.