
As China enters the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), a key national goal is to achieve greater self-reliance in science and technology. This drive for innovation is not just about national development; it is bringing real, positive changes to people’s daily lives.
With more international travelers visiting China, many have witnessed its real technological changes. American vlogger Christian Grossi is one of them. During his trip to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in September, he tried a wearable exoskeleton robot that helps people walk and run. He excitedly said, “This is literally the future! China is the most technologically advanced country I’ve ever seen.” His video about this experience has got over 10 million views by early December.
This lightweight robot is easy to put on and take off in less than a minute. It has already been used in some Chinese scenic spots, becoming a helpful tool for outdoor lovers. It’s cheap too — costing under $1,000 to buy or $22 to rent. Foreign netizens were surprised by its low price and practical use, with one popular comment saying China uses AI to assist daily life instead of replacing jobs. They also noted it would be much more expensive in other countries. The robot can help the disabled and elderly regain mobility, which eases the burden on their families.