China’s Robotics Gambit

China’s open-sourcing of robotics tech, like the Tiangong humanoid, isn’t charity—it’s a calculated power play. By sharing tech, they aim to lead the global robotics revolution, leveraging their manufacturing might. History shows this works.

Why It Works

Scale Advantage: Even with the know-how there is no competition.
Ecosystem Lock-in: Free tech seeds global reliance, tying innovation to China’s orbit.
Standard Setter: Can define robotics norms.

Historical Playbook

Example	Move	Payoff
Prestige	Freed gasket tech	Saved industry by fixing pressure cooker explosions
GPS	Opened signal	Became the global standard, fueled trade
Volvo	Freed seat belt tech	Earned safety icon status, free since ’59
Android	Open-sourced OS	Built a mobile empire, now ruling 70% of phones
Tesla	Freed EV designs	Crowned EV market king by fueling a boom they lead

China’s Endgame

Open-sourcing robotics isn’t giving up control—it’s claiming it. Like TTK saved cookers or Tesla sparked EVs, China’s Tiangong sets the stage. They’ll build the future while others tinker with their blueprints.

History proves it: share the tech, own the game.