Kathmandu, May 17 -- made humanoid robots stunned spectators in Beijing last month as they sprinted through a half-marathon race, showcasing dramatic advances in athletic ability and autonomous navigation that experts say are rapidly reshaping the future of robotics.

Now, one of those machines could soon face an even tougher challenge: climbing the slopes of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.

During the April 19 half-marathon in Beijing, more than 100 robot teams took part in the race.

Several robots completed the 21-kilometre course faster than professional athletes.

The winning humanoid robot, developed by Chinese smartphone company Honor, crossed the finish line in 50 minutes and 26 seconds-faster than the human winners and s...