China’s annual Spring Festival Gala has set a new record, reaching an audience of 16.8 billion across all media platforms. This year’s spectacular event seamlessly blended traditional art forms with cutting-edge technology, captivating viewers around the world.
For the first time in its over 40-year history, the gala showcased an array of high-tech innovations, including ultra-high definition visuals, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, 3D vision, and 3D audio. These advancements brought a new dimension to the performances, highlighting China’s strides in technological development.
One of the night’s most captivating performances was the robot dance “Yangge Bot.” Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, 16 humanoid robots took center stage alongside 16 human dancers. Together, they performed the traditional Yangko dance, a vibrant folk art form from Northeast China, blending cultural heritage with modern innovation.
The humanoid robots, standing at 1.8 meters tall, are part of Unitree’s H1 series launched in August 2023. They underwent three months of intensive preparation, with AI training enabling precise movements and coordination with the human performers. The result was a seamless fusion of technology and tradition that delighted audiences.
Another highlight was the martial arts performance “The Pen Writes the Dragon and Snake,” featuring Donnie Yen. Utilizing a 30-camera array and advanced 3D vision AI algorithms, the performance created a “bullet-time” effect, allowing viewers to experience acrobatic moments as if time stood still. This innovative use of technology provided a unique visual experience not possible with traditional cameras.
The gala also integrated AI-generated content powered by Alibaba’s Qwen AI model. Performances like “A Flower Nurtured by Time” transformed stage visuals into static oil paintings, while other acts featured AI-generated characters and backgrounds, offering fresh and imaginative scenes that captivated viewers.
By combining traditional culture with state-of-the-art technology, China’s Spring Festival Gala showcased the nation’s commitment to innovation and its ability to create unforgettable experiences. The event not only celebrated the Lunar New Year but also highlighted the possibilities when tradition meets the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com