Robots Inform, Monitor, and Entertain in a Chinese Urban Park

China has opened its first robot-run volunteer service station in a public park. As more and more cities explore ways to integrate robotics into everyday urban life.

The station recently began operating in Shenzhen, where robotic volunteers have been deployed throughout Qianhaishi Park. To assist visitors, patrol the area, and provide entertainment.

Images released by CNS show the robots at a service point. Interacting with visitors and distributing items such as drinks and insect repellent. While others patrol the park and some even break into dance.

“Also the main functions of the robot Oli are to provide general information and guided tours to visitors. As well as interact with them and perform entertainment.” Explained Cheng Peng, a volunteer at the Qianhaishi Park service point.

“The robot from Xingchen General Robot Co. is primarily designed to patrol the park and offer safety and civic behavior reminders. It can also answer questions visitors ask about the park during their visit,” he added.

According to the project manager, the initiative aims to go beyond simply being a novelty to entertain the public. By placing robots in a real public environment. So this position helps developers refine how machines interact with people in dynamic, real-world scenarios.

Moreover the project also seeks to expand the practical applications of robotics in everyday situations. Allow researchers to explore how these types of systems could be more widely used in future public services.

With information from Theo Farrant and CNS via AP