From Science Fiction To Reality: A Glimpse Into The Future At Unitree Robotics

By Augustine Wereuche Praise*

As an international student studying in China, I’ve always been fascinated by how technology bridges cultures and shapes our shared future. Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Unitree Robotics, one of China’s most innovative robotics companies. Accompanied by faculty members and Chinese students, I stepped into a realm where machines are not only intelligent but also mobile, agile, and surprisingly lifelike.

Unitree has gained global recognition for its cutting-edge robots, particularly its quadruped models that resemble dogs and humanoid robots capable of walking. During our visit, we were shown these innovations up close.

The humanoid robot was activated first. It began walking across the floor, its movements so fluid that it was easy to forget it wasn’t human. Each step was precise, balanced, and almost graceful. Watching it, I imagined how such robots could one day assist in environments too dangerous for humans.

Next came the quadruped robots—the “dog-like” machines. They captured everyone’s attention as they navigated stairs with remarkable ease. Designed for stability and adaptability, these robots demonstrated their potential for use in rescue missions, exploration, and even household assistance.

While most of the presentation was delivered in Chinese, which presented a language barrier for me, the power of technology transcended words. The demonstrations spoke for themselves, showcasing how engineering and design can create machines capable of interacting with the physical world in dynamic ways. With the help of my teacher, I was able to glean additional insights into the company’s growth and advancements. It was amazing to receive firsthand information about the challenges and adjustments Unitree has made to keep up with the varying demands of the market.

As I took photos, I couldn’t help but reflect on how these innovations represent more than just technical achievements. They reflect humanity’s endless pursuit to build, to solve problems, and to improve life. For me, seeing these robots in action was like stepping from a scene in science fiction into reality.

This visit also reminded me of the crucial role that education and international collaboration play in advancing technology. Being part of this experience as an international student underscored how innovation is a shared language.

Our visit concluded with more demonstrations and an opportunity to observe the robots up close. I left Unitree feeling inspired, curious, and hopeful about the future. This visit transformed how I see my role as a Nigerian student within China’s tech ecosystem. We are not just passive observers of innovation but active participants in a global conversation that will define how these technologies integrate into our societies. The robots at Unitree moved with mechanical precision, but they represented something profoundly human: our endless capacity to imagine, create, and improve the world around us.

*Wereuche Praise, majors in Communication Engineering at the School of Artificial Intelligence, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China