The company UBTech says its "U1" robot -- equipped with eye cameras, chest sensors, and listening microphones -- is the world's first full-sized, ultra-realistic humanoid designed for mass production.Touted as an antidote to loneliness, the robots are priced at 119,800 yuan ($17,600) for the most basic type and 990,000 yuan ($145,700) for an "Ultra" version with more advanced features."Our bionic robots can accompany you for a lifetime," Michael Tam, head of UBTech's brand UWorld, said Tuesday at a launch event in the southern Chinese tech hub Shenzhen."It will never betray you, will always be loyal to you, and will love you unconditionally."If you pay enough, the androids' hair, face and outfits can be customised to resemble a loved one, a celebrity, or an imaginary character.
A stylist gives a final touch to a humanoid robot during the U1 launch in China's Shenzhen © ADEK BERRY / AFP
Male and female U1s can speak through an artificial intelligence tool programmed by the company to offer soothing words if it detects fatigue or stress, and get to know its user over time.The product is mainly aimed at single people and those aged over 60 -- a "colossal market" in China of around 120 and 320 million respectively, according to Tam."These people have a great need for companionship," he said.UBTech says it has already had more than 13,300 pre-orders, with deliveries due to start in September.'Niche market'Robotics is a booming sector worldwide, and Chinese startups have raced ahead in recent years, helped in part by their access to the country's existing supply chains.The basic U1 can move its head, eyes and mouth, and has a battery life of up to four hours -- but it doesn't do housework or cooking, and its skills do not extend to the bedroom either.
