Hubei becomes first region in China to introduce “digital ID cards” for humanoid robots

China’s Hubei Province has become the first region in the country to introduce official “digital identity cards” for humanoid robots, marking a major step towards the standardisation and regulation of next-generation intelligent machines, reports Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to the Hubei Provincial Department of Science and Technology, the new registration system has been launched by the Hubei Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre and introduces a unique lifecycle identity code for every humanoid robot. The initiative is designed to ensure full traceability of robotic systems, improve operational accountability and support the long-term development of the country’s robotics industry.

The new digital identification mechanism functions similarly to a human identity document. Each robot receives a unique code containing key manufacturing and operational data, including the producer, hardware specifications, intelligence level, factory registration details and serial number.

Officials explained that the system will allow operators and regulators to trace technical failures more efficiently by accessing operational logs and maintenance histories through the robot’s identity code. The mechanism is also expected to simplify cross-platform deployment by enabling users to verify a robot’s performance record and operational history without repeated inspections.

Experts involved in the project believe the initiative could become a foundation for a broader national framework governing the circulation, application and management of humanoid robotics data. The system is expected to support more efficient data collection, certification, exchange and practical application across multiple industrial sectors.

The next stage of the programme is expected to focus on expanding the use of digital identity systems across additional robot categories and integrating the platform into wider smart manufacturing and industrial internet ecosystems.