Marketed to singles and people older than 60 years old, the humanoid robots are touted to be the cure
for loneliness, fitted with an artificial intelligence tool that gets to know its user over time
By Ludovic Ehret
/ AFP
Their metallic frames covered in supple, lifelike skin, a posse of new Chinese robots meant for companionship can offer users artificial intelligence (AI)-generated conversation or a hand to hold, complete with manicured nails.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 (US$17,600) for the most basic type and 990,000 yuan (US$145,700) for an “ultra” version with more advanced features.
