A robotics firm in China claims a robot has performed the world's first humanoid robot front flip, which is significantly more difficult than a backflip.

One leading Chinese firm, Unitree Robotics, has developed a $90,000 robot capable of running at speeds of up to 11 mph. A cheaper $16,000 version can absorb punches and kicks and twirl a baton.

Chinese companies have launched more humanoid robots, signaling the industry enters an early phase of mass production, an industry veteran said on Tuesday. The remarks came as Guangdong-based ...