Chinese robotics startup EngineAI has achieved a notable milestone by showcasing a humanoid robot that can perform a frontflip.

The demonstration, shared in a YouTube video on Feb. 25, shows the robot flipping and landing almost in the same spot, followed by a few stumbling steps.

Executing a frontflip presents a greater challenge for humanoid robots than a backflip.  Previous backflips have been completed by companies such as Boston Dynamics in 2017 and Unitree in 2024.

The frontflip was executed by EngineAI’s PM01 model, which measures 1.38 meters tall. This is shorter than the full-size robots used by Boston Dynamics and Unitree for backflips, which stand at 1.5 and 1.8 meters, respectively.

Founded in 2023 by Zhao Tongyang, EngineAI has attracted attention for its innovative developments, including the SE01 model designed for fluid and natural walking.