Beijing's robot 4S store showcases embodied AI in action

A robot 4S store in Beijing's E-Town is helping connect robotics companies, research institutions, and users while creating fresh real-world testing grounds for embodied artificial intelligence.

Alex, from Russia, tries robot-made coffee at the Robot Restaurant in Beijing E-town. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Robot World, billed as the world's first 4S store for embodied AI robots, spans 4,000 square meters and showcases more than 150 products for industrial, medical, and household applications. The four-story facility provides sales, spare parts, services, and surveys, along with customized development, financing, and leasing, according to its operator.

For visitors, the store offers a glimpse of how robots are moving beyond demonstrations and into practical use.

"It's the first time that I've actually seen humanoid robots and learned about their applications," said Ananth Krishnan, a reporter with The Hindu who recently visited the site. He said eldercare robots were particularly noteworthy given China's aging population.

According to Li Tianlei, deputy director of commercial operations at Beijing E-Town Robot Technology Industry Development, Robot World has partnered with more than 70 leading robotics companies and generated over 30 million yuan ($4.43 million) in revenue since opening in August 2025.

Li said the store's demonstration scenarios also help improve robot performance. In one logistics-sorting display, a robot that initially required more than three minutes to complete a task can now finish it in less than one minute after repeated operation and data accumulation.

The store also gathers real-world operational data through its partners, creating what Li described as a feedback loop for product optimization and iteration.

"The industry needs more application scenarios," Li said. "Robots must be tested and refined in real-world environments to better meet market demand."

The model is now being expanded to provinces including Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Fujian, while opportunities abroad are also under consideration.