Chinese firms lead Tokyo humanoid summit, Japan showcases

The Humanoids Summit Tokyo opened Thursday, showcasing a range of advanced robotics from mechanical hands capable of threading a needle to childlike dancing robots and adult-sized delivery assistants. While dozens of companies participated, including established names like Boston Dynamics and Toyota Motor Corp., Chinese newcomers emerged as prominent figures at the event.

Companies such as Booster Robotics and LimX Dynamics demonstrated technology that builds upon foundational work initially developed in Japan and the United States, often refining it for cheaper mass production. Observers noted this pattern mirrors trends in other Japanese industries, like consumer electronics and electric vehicles, where Japan pioneered technology but later faced challenges in achieving widespread commercial success.

Tim Hornyuk, author of "Loving the Machine: The Art and Science of Japanese Robots," described this dynamic as a form of "Galapagos syndrome," where innovative Japanese products evolve in isolation and struggle to gain international traction. He expressed hope that Japan could develop a mass-market version of humanoid robots but suggested Chinese companies had already gained...