Kuavo, a humanoid robot developed by Longhua-based tech company Leju Robot, took part in the torch relay of the 15th National Games at Lianhua Hill Park in Futian District on Nov. 2.

Billed as the world’s first 5G-A-powered humanoid robot torchbearer, Kuavo received the torch flame from Beijing Olympics badminton gold medalist Yu Yang, then carried the torch steadily while waving to the audience and performing precise, human-like movements throughout its segment.

Kuavo completes handover of National Games torch flame from Beijing Olympics badminton gold medalist Yuyang at Civic Square in Futian District on Nov. 2. sznews.com

The robot also used AI-assisted voice technology to give interviews with media outlets and convey its best wishes to all participating athletes at the National Games.

Kuavo is China’s first open-source humanoid robot powered by HarmonyOS capable of jumping and navigating diverse terrains. The model used in the torch relay was equipped with Leju’s latest motion control algorithm, which enhances anti-interference performance and adaptability to complex ground conditions, enabling the robot to move with greater stability and perform human-like running motions more naturally.

Leveraging 5G-A, a next-generation communication technology featuring ultra-low latency and high bandwidth, operators were able to achieve real-time video transmission and seamless remote-control interaction with Kuavo during the relay --- all while remaining in Leju’s control center in Longhua.

To ensure flawless performance, the R&D team conducted multiple field tests in advance, including uphill running, torch-carrying turns and coordination rehearsals with human torchbearers.

According to the team, the torch used in the relay weighed about 1.6 kilograms, posing a challenge for a robot running with a single-arm load. By optimizing the load algorithms, engineers have managed to addresse potential balance issues such as forward or rightward tilting, ensuring Kuavo could run smoothly and steadily under load.

Kuavo is able to finish its relay segment with a operator controlling on-site.

Shenzhen is hailed as one of the Chinese cities with the most complete industrial system and the most vibrant innovation ecosystem in the robotics industry. The city is home to more than 74,000 robotics enterprises, with a total industrial output reaching 200 billion yuan as of last year, ranking first nationwide.