UBTech launches U1 humanoid companion robot in China

UBTech Robotics unveiled the U1, a full‑size humanoid robot designed for emotional companionship, at a launch event in Shenzhen. The device features a silicone skin, 88 articulated joints, cameras in its eyes and an affective AI that analyses facial expressions, voice and habits to adjust tone, posture and conversation topics. Targeted at people living alone and seniors, the robot can remind users of medication, keep a mood journal and engage in dialogue, but it cannot perform household chores and runs for only two to four hours on a charge.

The U1 is offered in male and female versions under the UWorld brand, with prices ranging from 119,800 yuan (about $16,500) to 990,000 yuan. On the day of release the company reported more than 13,000 orders, prompting a sharp intraday rise in UBTech’s share price, though the stock later fell 24.4% by the end of July as market analysts questioned the sustainability of a consumer‑focused humanoid market. The launch highlights a shift from UBTech’s traditional industrial robot applications toward a potential new category of personal companion machines.