At the 2026 International Consumer Electronics Show (IFA) in Berlin, a robot vacuum from Chinese company Ecovacs caught the attention of attendees by efficiently cleaning up ketchup spilled on the floor. According to the state-run Global Times, Chinese robotics and appliance companies have effectively taken over the IFA exhibition.
One visitor tested the performance of the Ecovacs robot vacuum, the 'Deebot X12S,' by pouring ketchup on the exhibition floor. The robot quickly cleaned the red stain, drawing cheers from onlookers who captured the moment on their phones.
IFA 2026, the world's largest consumer electronics and technology exhibition, is being held in Berlin from September 4 to 8. Chinese companies showcased a variety of robots, including those that can climb stairs, mow lawns, clean windows, and even humanoid robots that learn how to fold laundry. According to German public broadcaster rbb24, 928 companies from mainland China and 84 from Hong Kong are participating this year, compared to 201 companies from Germany and just five from Japan. South Korea is represented by 79 companies, including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Bodyfriend, Cuckoo Electronics, and AI semiconductor firm Rebellion.
Ecovacs explained that the 'Deebot X12S' enhances its cleaning performance by spraying a cleaning solution on stubborn stains before using rollers to wipe them away. Another Chinese company, Roborock, introduced a lawn mower robot that manages an entire yard without human intervention, as well as a pool cleaning robot. Additionally, Dreamy showcased its 'T16 Pro Steam' mop, which features a thickness of 9.85 cm, high-temperature steam at 200 degrees Celsius, 90-degree hot water cleaning, and a suction power of 30,000 pascals (Pa) to clean hard-to-reach areas under furniture.
A report released by Forbes China in conjunction with the exhibition noted that Chinese companies hold all top five positions in the global robot vacuum market. In the window cleaning robot sector, the combined market share of five Chinese companies exceeds 70%.
Major Chinese appliance manufacturer Haier demonstrated its laundry care system that assesses the condition of clothes, a refrigerator that recognizes ingredients and adjusts storage methods, and an AI cooking device that detects cooking processes. They also showcased humanoid robots, cleaning and companion robots, and AI exoskeletons that assist human movement. Midea presented robots that move dishes, make popcorn for attendees, and perform greetings and dances on two legs. Their AI air conditioner and 'AI EcoMaster,' which integrates home energy management, received positive feedback.
Life Lindner, CEO of IFA Management, stated, 'China has focused on technological innovation in recent years while also enhancing design and durability. This has established China's current standing in the industry.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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