Chess News

SenseRobot plays vs Bodhana Sivanandan and Ivan Sokolov at the ECU’s 40th Anniversary

BATUMI, GEORGIA – October 12, 2025 – In a dazzling celebration of chess and innovation, SenseRobot, a trailblazing partner of the European Chess Union (ECU), was awarded the prestigious Innovation and Partnership Award at the ECU’s 40th Anniversary Celebration in Batumi, Georgia. This honor celebrates SenseRobot’s relentless contributions to the global chess community, merging cutting-edge technology with the timeless allure of the game to inspire players and fans alike.

Held in the vibrant coastal city of Batumi, the ceremony drew chess grandmasters and enthusiasts from across the globe, marking four decades of the ECU’s leadership in elevating chess as a sport and cultural cornerstone. SenseRobot’s recognition underscored its role in redefining how the world engages with this ancient game.

Tommy Tang, CEO of SenseRobot, accepted the award on behalf of the company and delivered a heartfelt speech at the ECU General Assembly, addressing representatives from its 54 member federations and expressing gratitude for the recognition. “We are deeply honored to receive this award, which reflects our shared vision with the ECU to elevate chess as a universal language of strategy and intellect,” said Tang. “At SenseRobot, we believe technology can inspire new generations to embrace chess, fostering not only critical thinking but also creativity and innovation.”

ECU’s Innovation and Partnership Award Presented to SenseRobot

Tang also introduced the next-gen chess robot, SenseRobot Chess MINI, a sleek, portable evolution of the acclaimed SenseRobot Chess. Infused with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education features, the Chess MINI is designed to spark curiosity in young minds, blending chess mastery with coding and critical thinking skills. This innovative product introduces chess lovers to the joys of chess while equipping them with tools for intellectual growth in an engaging, tech-driven format.

Tommy Tang, CEO of SenseRobot, delivered a keynote speech at ECU General Assembly 2025

The SenseRobot Chess MINI will feature an intuitive interface, interactive tutorials, and customizable gameplay modes, making it an ideal tool for both beginners and seasoned players. By integrating coding challenges and chess puzzles, the Chess MINI bridges the gap between education and entertainment, reinforcing SenseRobot’s leadership in chess innovation.

Tommy introducing the STEAM feature of SenseRobot Chess MINI

On the same day, ECU and SenseRobot entered into a deeper collaboration to jointly promote the chess development. In a bold commitment to the ECU’s mission, SenseRobot pledged to donate units of the SenseRobot Chess MINI to the ECU. This initiative aligns with their collective vision of “Making Europe Smarter Together”, promoting chess culture and STEAM education across schools, chess clubs, and communities around Europe. The donation will support the ECU’s efforts to make chess accessible to diverse audiences, fostering inclusivity and inspiring the next generation of players and innovators.

Donation from SenseRobot to ECU and members

Chess AI vs. Masters: A Battle of Wits and Innovation

On October 11, 2025, SenseRobot and the ECU co-hosted two heart-pounding Chess AI vs. Chess Masters showdowns, setting the stage for an unforgettable prelude to the anniversary festivities. These rapid 30-minute battles pitted SenseRobot’s state-of-the-art AI against two chess titans: Ivan Sokolov, a legendary Grandmaster and esteemed coach, and Bodhana Sivanandan, the 10-year-old prodigy and Woman International Master.

Ivan Sokolov and Bodhana Sivanandan in the chess battle

“The intensity of these matches highlights the unique synergy between human creativity and AI innovation,” said Tommy Tang. “Bodhana and Ivan demonstrated extraordinary skill, and we’re proud to provide a platform that challenges the best minds in chess while inspiring the next generation.”

Global Acclaim for SenseRobot Chess

The SenseRobot Chess platform stole the spotlight in Batumi, captivating professional players and enthusiasts alike. Grandmasters and rising stars flocked to test their skills against the AI, marveling at its fast decision-making and dynamic playstyle. “It’s like sparring with a chess genius whose focus never wavers,” one international master remarked, noting how the AI’s objective analysis could revolutionize training by pinpointing strategic blind spots.

The platform’s live game facility, which connects players worldwide in real-time, broke down geographical barriers, allowing attendees to challenge opponents from distant continents. This feature ignited excitement for its potential to build a vibrant, global chess community.

“Batumi showed us the future of chess,” said Tang. “The enthusiasm for SenseRobot Chess and the upcoming Chess MINI is proof that we’re sparking a global movement.”

For more information about SenseRobot, the Chess MINI, or partnership opportunities, visit SenseRobot’s website or contact jean.huang@senserobotchess.com. Explore the ECU’s initiatives at www.europechess.org.

About the European Chess Union (ECU)
The European Chess Union is the governing body for chess in Europe, representing 54 national chess federations. For 40 years, the ECU has promoted chess as a sport, cultural activity, and educational tool, fostering excellence, community, and unity across the continent.

About SenseRobot
SenseRobot is a global leader in chess technology, dedicated to revolutionizing how people engage with the game through AI-driven solutions and educational tools. With a mission to make chess accessible, educational, and fun, SenseRobot combines innovation with tradition to inspire players of all ages.

Media Contact
SenseRobot Marketing
Email: jean.huang@senserobotchess.com

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