Chinese firm UBTech sells hyper-real, 'always loyal' humanoid robots

In Shenzhen, China, UBTech Robotics has unveiled its U1 humanoid robot, a lifelike android designed to offer companionship and combat loneliness. Priced from 119,800 yuan (US$17,600) to 990,000 yuan for an "Ultra" version, the U1 is marketed as a "lifetime companion" that "will never betray you, will always be loyal to you, and will love you unconditionally."

The U1 robot is equipped with eye cameras, chest sensors, and microphones, enabling AI-generated conversations. Users can customize its appearance, including hair, face, and outfits, to resemble loved ones, celebrities, or fictional characters. The AI is programmed to offer soothing words when it detects user fatigue or stress and learns about the user over time.

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Our bionic robots can accompany you for a lifetime. It will never betray you, will always be loyal to you, and will love you unconditionally.

UBTech's UWorld brand head, Michael Tam, highlighted the "colossal market" in China for such companions, estimating it includes approximately 120 million single people and 320 million individuals over 60. He stated these demographics have a "great need for companionship."

The company reports over 13,300 pre-orders, with deliveries scheduled to begin in September. While the basic U1 can move its head, eyes, and mouth, and has a four-hour battery life, it does not perform household chores or offer intimate relations, according to UBTech. Its capabilities include discussing daily concerns, reminding users about medication, and identifying potential health issues.

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These people have a great need for companionship.