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China's robotic legs enter everyday life

03:22

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Patrick Fok
February 14, 2026

Ageing demographics and government backing are bringing robotic exoskeletons into the mass market, and not just for China's elderly.

China is rapidly bringing exoskeleton technology into everyday life — even to one of its most iconic landmarks. At the Great Wall, visitors can now rent lightweight robotic exoskeletons that reduce strain on steep climbs, reflecting a broader push to commercialize mobility‑assist devices.

Advances in battery systems, high‑performance alloys and large‑scale manufacturing have driven prices down from tens of thousands of dollars to just a few hundred, helping fuel a growing "silver economy" as China’s population ages. With global exoskeleton revenue projected to surpass $2 billion (€1.68 billion) by 2030, Chinese companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of this emerging personal‑tech market.

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