Japanese Firm to Train Robot with AI to Reproduce Runners' Movements (japannews.yomiuri.co.jp)

GMO Internet Group, Inc. has announced a groundbreaking project to train a humanoid robot, the G1, to replicate the running movements of top Japanese athletes. The initiative marks the first attempt to enable a robot to autonomously learn running techniques using data gathered from sensors placed on runners, including renowned athletes like Yuya Yoshida and Asahi Kuroda. This innovative approach could pave the way for advancements in robotics and human motion analysis, particularly in sports and training applications. The G1 robot, developed by China's Unitree, currently stands 1.3 meters tall, weighs 35 kilograms, and can reach a speed of 3 meters per second. Although it faced challenges during a demonstration—sometimes falling while attempting to run—the project aims to refine its capabilities by August 2026, when it is slated to compete in the World Humanoid Robot Games in China. GMO's long-term vision includes deploying these humanoid robots for various roles, such as delivering goods and engaging in rescue operations, highlighting the potential of AI and robotics to revolutionize everyday tasks and emergency responses.