The world's first "4S store" dedicated to embodied artificial intelligence (AI) robots opened in Yizhuang in southern Beijing on Friday, marking the latest push to commercialize advanced robotics in China.
Following the 4S model used in the automobile industry, which stands for "sales, service, spare parts, and surveys," the store offers robotics sales, maintenance, parts, and information services.
It features an area for scenario-based demonstrations and immersive interactions, giving customers a hands-on experience with the product capabilities in real-life settings.
"I find the robots here are very innovative and entertaining. Technology is so advanced now and I hope to have some robot friends in the future. When I grow up, I want to major in information technology and AI to study robots," said young visitor Xing Guangchen.
The demonstration zone is divided into several sections. More than 50 models of medical, industrial, companion, and bionic robots from different brands are on display, showcasing applications in daily life and industrial production.
The robot mall also boasts a nationwide rapid-response parts supply network, along with a professional support team for maintenance, assembly, and repair.
"This robot 4S store mainly aims to help robotics firms overcome difficulties in moving from technological research and development to real-world application, serving as a bridge between robotics companies and consumers. Based on different consumer demands, we will further develop the robots to make them better suited to specific scenarios," said Wang Yifan, deputy general manager of the Beijing Yizhuang Robotics Technology Industry Development Company.
Yizhuang, home to over 300 robotics and smart manufacturing enterprises, is a key cluster in Beijing's robotics sector. The area hosts the permanent site of the World Robot Conference and boasts an industry chain valued at over 10 billion yuan (approximately 1.39 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for half of Beijing's total robotics industry.
Adding to its growing list of global firsts, Yizhuang earlier this year hosted the world's first humanoid robot half-marathon, which drew 20 robotics teams from universities, research institutes, and tech companies to compete alongside human athletes in a 21.0975-kilometer race.
World's first "4S store" for embodied AI robots opens in Beijing
World's first "4S store" for embodied AI robots opens in Beijing
World's first "4S store" for embodied AI robots opens in Beijing
Iran on Tuesday warned it would deliver a stern response to any new aggression, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordering preparations for a prolonged naval blockade of the country.
Trump has instructed his administration to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran as the ceasefire remains in place amid stalled talks, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing U.S. officials.
In recent meetings, including a Monday discussion with top security officials in the White House, Trump opted to continue squeezing Iran's economy and oil exports by preventing shipping to and from its ports, said the report.
The president assessed that the blockade, "a high-risk bid" to compel Tehran's nuclear capitulation, carries less risk than other options -- resume bombing or walk away from the conflict, the officials were quoted as saying.
Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated the same day that Tehran has completed "all necessary arrangements" to counter the U.S. naval blockade.
She noted that Iran's primary strategy focuses on maximizing its geographical advantages through effective tactical maneuvers.
Also on Tuesday, Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia declared that the military considers the current situation a state of war.
Akraminia added that Iran has fully updated its target lists and operational equipment, promising a "stern response" to any further aggression.
Mujtaba Ferdosipour, head of Iran's Interests Section in Cairo, told the IRNA news agency on Wednesday that U.S. attempts to force unilateral demands through a naval blockade are ineffective. He stressed that Iran's extensive land borders with neighboring countries provide viable alternatives to bypass the maritime restrictions.
Ferdosipour reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz is closed only to vessels linked to Israel and the United States. He asserted that Iran has the right to manage security in the strait, maintaining that this position does not violate international conventions.
The envoy further stated that Iran does not trust the United States and has no desire for direct negotiations. He emphasized that Tehran can employ all available means to defend itself against attacks.
According to the latest data from the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), ship transits through the Strait of Hormuz have plummeted by 95.3 percent since Feb 27. The disruption has caused global food prices to rise by approximately six percent, while crude oil prices in European markets have surged by nearly 50 percent.
Iran warns of stern response as US plans prolonged blockade
