Company’s humanoid robot goes on pre-sale and causes controversy in China
The idea of humanoid robots present in everyday life seemed, until recently, something distant and limited to the universe of science fiction. However, current technological progress suggests that this reality is increasingly closer to becoming a reality.
Even more, the evolution of technology and artificial intelligence has transformed the purpose of robots, which are no longer just machines for automating tasks. They are now beginning to fill new roles in users’ routines.
Recently, UBTECH, a Chinese company, revealed a new model of humanoid robot. He stands out for his great resemblance to humans and was presented as an emotional companion.
Details about the launch of the U1 Pro robot
Called U1 Pro, the model is part of the UWORLD line from UBTECH Robotics, recognized for developing humanoid and intelligent service robots.
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Online pre-sales for the device began on June 2. To secure a unit, the Chinese company requests a deposit of 3,000 yuan, equivalent to around 2,000 reais.
In the first ten days of pre-sales, the robot reached the mark of 4 thousand reservations, generating revenue of more than 10 million yuan.
There is still no information on the final price of the U1, but its official launch is scheduled for June 30th.
Technology and characteristics of the hyperbionic companion robot
This robot model was created specifically with the aim of offering emotional support to U1 buyers.
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The series presents two versions: a female version, 1.68 meters tall and weighing 35 kilos, and a male version, slightly larger, measuring 1.83 meters and weighing 42 kilos.
Its silicone surface simulates human skin, and dozens of microactuators in its structure function like muscles, allowing facial reactions that suggest the expression of emotions during conversations.
Inside the robot, multicore processors operate as a central nervous system, controlling both the logic and the movement of the device.
Even though the robot bears a great resemblance to a human being, it requires a Wi-Fi connection and its battery lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
Ethical debates and controversies involving technology
Like many other technological innovations, the issue of humanoid robots has already been addressed in works of fiction. The thriller “Perfect Escort”, released in 2025, presents a plot similar to UBTECH’s proposal.
In the film, what begins as a couples trip with friends turns out to be a plot where the main character is, in fact, a humanoid robot. She believes she has built a romantic relationship, but it has been acquired and personalized by her partner.
The revelation of their non-human nature triggers a sequence of events that raise deep ethical questions about humanoid robots with autonomous intelligence and the ability to simulate emotions.
Another relevant production that explores this theme is the episode “I’ll be right back”, from the second season of Black Mirror, which tells the story of a pregnant woman who requests a robot identical to her deceased husband.
With a body made of synthetic material, just like the deceased, and an artificial intelligence built from his digital history, the plot explores moral dilemmas about grief and the human condition itself.
Returning to the U1 Pro, industry experts point out that the product is aimed at young single adults and issue a warning about the potential ethical dilemma that the use of the robot can generate.
Zhou Jian, founder and CEO of UBTECH, stated that the model’s objective is not to be a “sex robot”, but rather to be a constant companion for its users.
