This year's Spring Festival Gala in China has set a new benchmark by seamlessly blending traditional artistry with state-of-the-art technology. Achieving an unprecedented reach of 16.8 billion across all media platforms, the event captivated a global audience with its innovative approach.
Organized by China Media Group (CMG), the gala incorporated a range of high-tech solutions to ensure a smooth and stable broadcast worldwide. Among the technologies employed were ultra-high definition, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, 3D vision, and 3D audio—many of which have been introduced for the first time in the gala's over four-decade history.
One of the standout performances was the AI-driven humanoid robot dance titled “Yangge Bot”. Directed by the renowned 5th-generation filmmaker Zhang Yimou in collaboration with Unitree, a leading Chinese robotics company, the performance featured 16 humanoid robots performing alongside 16 human dancers. The robots, part of Unitree's H1 series, showcased their ability to execute traditional Yangko dance movements, a vibrant folk art form from Northeast China, highlighting a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and technological prowess.
The Unitree H1 robots, each standing at 1.8 meters tall and weighing 47 kilograms, were meticulously trained through three months of intensive rehearsals. Utilizing laser SLAM for precise positioning and automated formation changes, the robots overcame challenges such as stage floor gaps to deliver a flawless performance. Priced at approximately 650,000 yuan (around $90,000) each, these robots mark a significant advancement in commercial robotics, with Unitree having introduced the G1 series in May 2024.
In addition to humanoid robots, the gala featured drone matrices for aerial shows and electric vehicles for dynamic light displays, further enhancing the visual spectacle. This technological infusion not only ensured a smooth broadcast but also celebrated China's commitment to innovation and the arts.
This is not the first time Unitree's robots have graced the Spring Festival Gala stage. Back in 2021, their quadruped robots partnered with pop star Andy Lau, demonstrating the company's growing influence in the intersection of entertainment and robotics.
The successful integration of advanced technologies in this year's gala underscores China's leadership in AI and robotics, setting the stage for future performances that continue to amaze and inspire audiences around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
