On May 5, Chinese robotics company AGIBOT unveiled its full-size A2 humanoid robot at The Mark Hotel in New York, ahead of the Met Gala. This marked the first appearance of an embodied AI robot at a Met Gala pre-event, attracting significant attention from media, designers, and bystanders.

The Mark Hotel is a main gathering spot for Met Gala arrivals. Designers and celebrities get ready there before heading to the red carpet. Photographers wait outside to capture early outfits, making it an important place for worldwide coverage.

AGIBOT selected this venue to debut its A2 humanoid robot in collaboration with designer Alexander Wang. The robot stood out among high-profile guests and quickly attracted photographers’ attention, introducing a technology focus to an event traditionally centered on fashion.

For Wang, this moment showed his continued effort to link cultural themes with modern design. Working with AGIBOT also put a spotlight on Chinese robotics innovation worldwide.

Agibot A2’s crowd interaction draws attention

The A2 robot did more than just pose for photos. It responded to photographers, changed its posture, and posed when asked. Its quick reactions helped it fit in with the busy scene outside the hotel.

At one point, the robot got stuck while leaving an elevator. Staff and handlers helped guide it out. The delay was brief, and the robot continued its activities without further issues.

Even with this small problem, the robot remained a big attraction. Videos and photos of it spread quickly on social media, making it one of the most talked-about parts of the night.

Built for real-world environments

AGIBOT A2 is designed with human-like proportions and movement. It walks on two legs with balance and stability, allowing it to operate in crowded and unpredictable settings. The robot is equipped with systems that support object handling and interaction with people.

At the event, A2 did tasks like holding items and serving drinks to guests. These actions showed it can work in real-world situations, not just in a lab.

The robot’s perception and decision-making systems helped it move through a busy space full of people, cameras, and activity. This kind of performance shows progress in embodied AI, where machines are made to interact with the world around them.

Technology meets artistic expression

The partnership between AGIBOT and Alexander Wang matched the Met Gala’s 2026 theme, “Fashion is Art.” By bringing a humanoid robot to a fashion event, the project explored how technology can enhance creative expression.

This moment points to a bigger change, as robotics moves beyond factories and into cultural spaces. The A2 robot’s appearance showed that machines can be participants, not just tools.

AGIBOT views this as part of a bigger plan to bring embodied AI into daily life. The company wants to use its technology in many industries, from service jobs to creative work.