China to deploy battery-swapping humanoid robots on Vietnam border

China’s UBTech Robotics has secured a 264 million yuan (US$37 million) contract to deploy its Walker S2 humanoid robots at border crossings in Guangxi province, near the Vietnam border. Deliveries will start in December, marking one of China’s largest government deployments of humanoid robots. The Walker S2, launched in July, is notable for its industrial-grade design and autonomous battery-swapping capability, enabling nearly continuous 24-hour operation without manual intervention. The robots will assist with traveler guidance, personnel flow management, patrol duties, logistics, and commercial services at border checkpoints, as well as conduct inspections at nearby manufacturing sites for steel, copper, and aluminum. This deployment reflects China’s broader push to commercialize embodied AI and integrate robotics into public and industrial sectors, supported by strong government policy. Similar humanoid and service robots have been introduced in airports, government offices, and major events across the country. The Walker S2 features advanced capabilities including 52 degrees of freedom, dex