At some centers in China, human-shaped robots are allowed to perform simple movements again and again such as picking up water bottles, pushing trays into the microwave, or scanning parcel labels.
Humans are also involved in this process. Employees wear sensory suits, performing operations such as folding clothes or flattening bed sheets. Their movements are recorded so that robots can learn.
Simply put, these are like "schools" for robots. Robots are put into environments with many different objects and situations, then perform the same task many times. The collected data will help robots improve their ability to handle tasks in real life.
This is especially important when the humanoid robot is transitioning from performance to work. A robot can walk, run, or jump in a controlled environment but may not be able to handle simple tasks such as taking an item, folding clothes, or moving an object without pre-programming.
According to information from Xinhua, by the end of June 2026, China had more than 70 AI training centers. More than 40 other centers are being built or planned.
China currently has more than 140 human-shaped robot manufacturers. In 2025, this country exported about 14,400 human-shaped robots, equivalent to about 80% of human-shaped robots exported globally.
In Guangdong, a provincial-level training center is likened to a "robot school". Robots are not only brought here for training but also have the opportunity to experiment in real environments.
This center also connects robot manufacturers with businesses that need to use it. Companies in the fields of healthcare, energy and many other industries can offer specific tasks for robots to test.
Zhang Haiwei - founder of a robot company in Hangzhou - said that previously, businesses could have spent tens of millions of yuan just to build data to serve an application scenario. Sharing centers helps businesses reduce costs and access more testing environments.
China is also making specific requests to expand this activity. The plan, issued in June 2026, requires each province and city to identify at least 20 priority situations for robots to be trained and tested in the actual environment.
Robot training centers are continuing to expand beyond major cities. With more places for robots to practice, manufacturers will have more data to improve the operating capabilities of machines.
Instead of just manufacturing robots and putting them on the market, China is also building places for robots to "study", practice and accumulate experience before entering practical work.
