Robotics Spotlight: Fourth Company Joins 2026 Spring Festival Gala Race
National Stage Opens for AI Employees
On January 31, 2026, the robotics industry saw a new milestone as the fourth company confirmed its participation in China’s Spring Festival Gala. Alongside MagicLab, Galbot, and Unitree, Noetix Robotics secured a high-profile slot with state broadcaster CCTV. Titles like “Humanoid Robot Partner” and “Designated Embodied Large Model Robot” are more than labels—they signal intense competition among robotics startups eager to showcase their AI Employees and Non-Human Workers on a nationwide stage.
This Gala is not merely a performance; it represents a pivotal opportunity for robotics firms to gain recognition, attract investment, and validate their technology. Reports indicate that bids for the coveted humanoid robot spot reached 100 million yuan, highlighting both the stakes and the financial pressure faced by emerging companies.
The High-Stakes Showcase
For AI Employees performing live, the Gala is a rigorous public test. Stability, interactive ability, and adaptability are under scrutiny, as even minor missteps can attract widespread attention. Analysts note that a flawless presentation could significantly boost a company’s prestige and market momentum, while errors could affect investor confidence. In this sense, the event functions as both a marketing platform and a technical stress test for next-generation robotics.

Industry Implications and Future Prospects
The race for the Gala reflects the broader maturity of China’s robotics sector. Companies investing heavily in live demonstrations signal confidence in their Voice AI Agents and humanoid robots, emphasizing their readiness to transition from labs to commercial markets. Observers see the Gala as an early indicator of which startups may dominate in the next wave of robotics innovation, shaping public perception and industry leadership.
Key Highlights:
- On January 31, 2026, Noetix Robotics became the fourth robotics firm confirmed for the Spring Festival Gala.
- Gala slots include roles like “Humanoid Robot Partner,” offering national exposure.
- Bids reportedly reached 100 million yuan, showing high stakes for startups.
- Live performances test AI Employees and Non-Human Workers under public scrutiny.
- Success at the Gala could boost brand recognition, investment, and market influence.
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