Traditionally, robot conferences have predominantly centered on the physical forms of robots, emphasizing their capacity to execute intricate tasks. Yet, this year marks a subtle but significant shift in the industry's focus: from merely highlighting "what robots can accomplish" to delving deeper into "how robots can acquire and master a broader range of skills." At the 2026 World Robot Conference, companies have moved beyond showcasing isolated capabilities like walking or grasping. Instead, they have turned their attention to fundamental competencies such as embodied intelligence models, world modeling, data acquisition, and simulation-based training.

The competitive landscape within the robotics sector is undergoing a transformation, pivoting from hardware prowess to a holistic evaluation of "model + data" capabilities. This metamorphosis is propelled by the rapid integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the tangible world. Industry experts underscore that for robots to seamlessly integrate into both production environments and everyday life, they must transcend mere task execution. They must also cultivate a nuanced understanding of the real world. As the "brain" of robots continues to evolve and mature, models and data have emerged as the new linchpins of industrial advancement.