Chinese humanoid robots take centre stage at Lisbon's Web Summit, with about 70,000 participants from 164 countries
Chinese humanoid robots took centre stage at the opening of Web Summit 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. Nine robots performed a synchronised dance routine at the MEO Arena, drawing cheers from thousands of spectators.
The robots were developed by Chinese robotics company AgiBot. The technology conference opened on 9 November.
For the first time, humanoid robots also appeared as official speakers, joining discussions and demonstrations alongside human presenters.
Elsewhere, visitors saw Galbot's wheeled, two-armed robot, designed for tasks in shops, pharmacies and factories.
This year's summit attracted around 70,000 participants from 164 countries. China sent its largest delegation to date, including more than 50 figures from its artificial intelligence and robotics sectors.
Web Summit was founded in Dublin, Ireland, in 2009 and moved to Lisbon in 2016, since becoming one of Europe's major technology gatherings.
This year's edition brought together thousands of start-ups, investors and industry leaders. Founder Paddy Cosgrave highlighted China's growing influence in the sector.
