EngineAI releases raw humanoid robot demo after fake-video claims

Chinese robotics firm EngineAI faced widespread skepticism after unveiling its T800 humanoid robot in a dramatic launch video showcasing fluid, powerful movements such as breaking down doors and delivering swift kicks. Many viewers suspected the footage was computer-generated due to the stylized editing and lighting effects. To counter these claims, EngineAI released behind-the-scenes footage filmed in a plain studio without color grading or dramatic effects, demonstrating the robot performing the same actions with visible mechanical detail. The company attributes the robot’s realistic motions to its engineering specifications, including 450 newton-meters of joint torque and 29 degrees of freedom, emphasizing that the performance is driven by physical capabilities rather than digital enhancements. EngineAI’s experience reflects a broader trend in the humanoid robotics industry, where increasingly sophisticated robot motions and cinematic marketing have led to doubts about authenticity. Other Chinese firms like Xpeng and UBTECH Robotics have faced similar accusations and responded by releasing raw footage to prove their robots’ capabilities. These controversies highlight how humanoid robot movements,