Chinese firm unveils hyper-realistic humanoid robots for companionship
UBTech says it has already received more than 13,300 pre-orders for its AI-powered companion robots, with deliveries set to begin in September.
A Chinese robotics company has unveiled a new line of hyper-realistic humanoid robots designed to provide companionship, offering AI-powered conversations, emotional support and personalised interactions.
UBTech yesterday (30 June) launched its U1 humanoid robot in Shenzhen, describing it as the world's first full-sized, ultra-realistic humanoid built for mass production.
Covered in lifelike synthetic skin and equipped with eye cameras, chest sensors and microphones, the robot is designed to hold conversations, recognise users' emotions and provide companionship over time.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
"Our bionic robots can accompany you for a lifetime," Michael Tam, head of UBTech's consumer brand UWorld, said at the launch event. "It will never betray you, will always be loyal to you, and will love you unconditionally."
The U1 is priced from 119,800 yuan ($17,600), while the more advanced Ultra version costs 990,000 yuan ($145,700).
According to the company, customers can customise the robot's face, hairstyle and clothing to resemble a loved one, a celebrity or a fictional character.
UBTech said the robots are primarily aimed at single people and older adults. The AI system can engage in conversations, offer emotional support, remind users to take medication, detect signs of stress or fatigue and learn individual preferences over time.
The company said it has already received more than 13,300 pre-orders, with deliveries scheduled to begin in September.
The basic U1 model can move its head, eyes and mouth and has a battery life of up to four hours. It is not designed to perform household chores such as cooking or cleaning, and the company said it is not intended for intimate relationships.
The launch comes as China continues to expand its robotics industry.
According to Barclays, the country accounted for 85% of global humanoid robot installations last year, while the Chinese government says more than 140 companies have introduced over 330 humanoid robot models.
Industry analysts say companion robots could find a niche in elderly care and mental wellness, although widespread adoption may depend on whether manufacturers can overcome the "uncanny valley" effect, where highly human-like machines make people feel uncomfortable.
UBTech said all user data processed by the robots is encrypted and will not be used to train its artificial intelligence models.
