Chinese firm unveils hyper-real humanoid companion robot for loneliness

Chinese robotics firm UBTech Robotics has unveiled the U1, a lifelike humanoid companion robot designed for mass production, with prices ranging from 119,800 yuan (about $17,600) to 990,000 yuan (about $145,700) for a premium version. The AI-powered robot is being marketed as a solution to loneliness and is capable of holding conversations, offering emotional support, reminding users to take medication, and monitoring wellbeing. Users can also customise its appearance to resemble a loved one, celebrity, or fictional character. The company said it has already received more than 13,300 pre-orders, with deliveries expected to begin in September. UBTech is primarily targeting single individuals and elderly users, although analysts suggest such humanoid companions may remain a niche market due to the “uncanny valley” effect, where highly human-like machines can cause discomfort. The launch comes as China continues to expand its leadership in the global humanoid robotics industry, supported by strong government backing and a rapidly growing domestic technology sector. (Newswire)