Beijing robot fiesta attracts tech lovers as China expects robust industry growth

A robot replica of ancient Chinese philosopher Wang Yangming practices calligraphy at the 2016 World Robot Conference in Beijing, China, Oct. 22, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua by Wang Yue]

BEIJING, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- You might have to look twice to make sure that what you saw is a robot rather than a real man. Clad in a dark blue gown practicing traditional Chinese calligraphy , the life-like robot is a replica of philosopher Wang Yangming who lived nearly 500 years ago.

Robot Wang Yangming writes attentively, nodding and moving its other arm from time to time, undisturbed by the large crowds surrounding it at the 2016 World Robot Conference in Beijing. Over 200 scientific research institutions and enterprises from all over the world came here to show off their latest robotic achievements. More than 300 experts from 11 countries also gathered here to share ideas during the 5-day conference and expo that would last until Tuesday.

The developer of Robot Wang Yangming said it can also interact with people.

A few steps away stands the famous "robot goddess" Jia Jia, China's first interactive robot. Dressed in a lavish traditional Chinese gown, the humanoid robot can make micro-expressions, roll her eyes, recognize facial expressions of others and converse with those who ask her questions, either in Chinese or English, within seconds.