Robo-footie in China

Dozens of robots played football, danced and did simple household chores at an event in China.

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It was a display of leading-edge robotics over a three-day tournament known as "RoboCup". Teams from dozens of universities and colleges competed in the event.

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You can't call them quick at getting the ball in play but these Chinese football robots are rounding up to it in cutting-edge technological style - their moves thanks to remote sensors and programming advancements all made in China.

Robot football was a highlight of a three-day tournament in Guangdong province known as "RoboCup".

(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin) CHEN XIAOPING, 2008 CHINESE NATIONAL ROBOTS COMPETITION ORGANISING COMMITTEE, SAYING:

"We have introduced more games in this national event, which helps to promote the use of robots and robot development across China."

Dozens of teams from more than 100 schools showcased their creations, competing on voice-recognition and visual-sensing skills.

Organisers hope the technology can be applied in future disaster relief operations and in helping get those pesky household chores done.

Susan Flory, Reuters