TLDR
- Andrew Yao called for unified frameworks combining reasoning, planning, and control in embodied AI systems.
- He emphasized the need for interpretable world models over simulation-based approaches.
- Yao urged scalable and diverse data collection methods to improve training and real-world application.
- Shanghai and Guangzhou are investing in AI infrastructure, hosting events and providing support for robotics developers.
- China included embodied intelligence in its 15th five-year plan, with over 150 humanoid-robot firms already operating.
Chinese computer scientist Andrew Yao has called for unified global standards and world models in embodied artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at a Shanghai tech event, he highlighted the need for better reasoning, control, and data frameworks. Yao also stressed the urgency of open benchmarks to guide safe and scalable AI development.
Yao Calls for Unified Framework and Data Collection
Andrew Yao addressed the Global Developer Pioneers Summit and the International Embodied Intelligence Skills Competition on Saturday. He said embodied Artificial Intelligence needs a single framework for planning, reasoning, and control. He emphasized that current systems simulate rather than understand their environment.
Yao proposed using interpretable “world models” to close that gap and improve capability. He also called for more diverse data collection methods. “Scalable new approaches to data collection should be explored,” Yao said during his presentation.
He added that robots must evolve beyond isolated functions and develop full-body coordination. He warned against siloed efforts by different groups. Yao pushed for open industry benchmarks and safety standards to support growth.
Shanghai and Guangzhou Accelerate Local AI Development
Shanghai used the event to announce support initiatives for AI developers. Pudong district introduced free computing access, housing support, and startup funding. A local industry alliance was also formed to promote collaboration.
The event featured competitions in practical robot tasks such as healthcare, food service, and assembly. Teams demonstrated robot performance across real-world applications. A wide range of models participated, including walking robots and service machines.
At the same time, Guangzhou hosted an AI and robotics conference for the Greater Bay Area. A report released there said the region’s core AI industry reached 220 billion yuan in 2024. Over 3,700 companies in AI and robotics are now active in the province.
National Support Grows for Embodied AI Sector
Beijing has included embodied intelligence in its upcoming five-year development plan. Other emerging areas listed include brain-computer interfaces and sixth-generation mobile networks. This policy direction has led local governments to prioritize robotics.
Regions such as Guangxi have released specific policies to back industrial growth. More cities now aim to become national centers for humanoid robotics. Companies are responding with large-scale investments and product pipelines.
Citic Securities projected a commercial tipping point in 2025 for embodied AI. Several leading robot manufacturers have secured billion-yuan contracts. Growth expectations have increased across China’s AI industry. Li Chao from the National Development and Reform Commission shared updated data in November. China now has over 150 companies specializing in humanoid robots. Li warned that product duplication could slow innovation and limit research investment.
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