Humanoid robots in police vests have been seen patrolling Shenzhen and Guangdong streets, a major milestone in China’s automation push. Videos of the robots walking with police officers, waving at crowds, shaking hands, and answering voice commands have gone viral on Chinese social media, the South China Morning Post reports.
These humanoid robots are currently in limited deployment by the Shenzhen police department, used mainly to support officers in patrol work. Their launch has generated interest online, with users noting their similarity to characters in science fiction films. “This is the first Chinese robot that walks like a human,” one user wrote, with another likening their glowing eye strips to RoboCop. Some, however, found the robots too small, suggesting they “need to buff up” for policing duties.
Human police and humanoid robot police (Shenzhen ENGINEAI PM01) https://t.co/Z9K0Klc7g0 pic.twitter.com/q4a7DYfRs1
— CyberRobo (@CyberRobooo) February 17, 2025
Advanced Technology and Features
The robots, created by Shenzhen-based firm EngineAI Robotics, have come to be known as PM01. They measure 1.38 meters tall, weigh 40 kg, and cost about INR 10.5 lakh (88,000 yuan). EngineAI emphasizes the robot’s rotating waist that moves 320 degrees, enabling it to carry out intricate movements, as well as its double walking modes, mechanical gait and humanoid natural gait.
Fitted with the latest optical motion capture technology, PM01 can efficiently gather and process human movement information. The robot also comes with an Iron Man-inspired intelligent control interface that combines multiple smart interaction functions.
China’s Increased Investment in Robotics
China’s speedy embrace of automation is due to demographic pressures such as a rapidly aging population and declining workforce. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has also singled out humanoid robots as the central pillar of achieving self-reliance and economic growth.
China installed 276,288 robots in 2023, or 51% of the world total, says the International Federation of Robotics. China also aims to host an event in August where humanoid robots will compete in track and field, football, and other challenge-based events.
