At the 2026 Guangzhou Coffee Carnival, a standout AI coffee machine became a crowd favorite for brewing pour-over coffee comparable to that made by a national champion barista.

The design team explained that the AI machine uses 3D vision learning to accurately replicate a barista’s pouring technique. From a high-flow center pour to circular motions and finally a low-flow fixed-point pour, the machine precisely mimics the champion’s subtle hand movements and flow control.

In addition to standard pour-over techniques, the machine also employs ultrasonic processing to release carbon dioxide and volatile compounds from the coffee grounds, resulting in a richer and smoother mouthfeel.

Coffee enthusiasts who sampled the brew noted that the AI-made coffee had no off-flavors and even tasted better than manually brewed pour-overs. Many said AI is rapidly catching up with—and in some cases surpassing—human skill in everyday tasks.