2nd July 2026 – (Shenzhen) Chinese robotics manufacturer UBTech has unveiled its first full‑size ultra‑realistic humanoid companion robot, with top models priced at up to RMB990,000 and deliveries expected to begin in September.
The Shenzhen-based company introduced the U1 series at its 2026 global launch event, marking the debut of its new consumer brand, UWORLD. The range includes several configurations: the entry-level half‑body U1 Lite at RMB119,800, the limb‑equipped U1 Pro at RMB169,800, and the flagship autonomous U1 Ultra models. The Ultra version is available in male and female forms, priced at RMB990,000 and RMB880,000 respectively. UBTech said orders have already exceeded 11,000 units, with the first batch scheduled for shipment in mid‑September.
Designed strictly for adult buyers, the U1 series is marketed as an emotional companion rather than a domestic helper. The robots are incapable of performing household chores but are intended to provide interactive engagement and “emotional value”.
Both male and female variants are built to life‑size proportions. The male model stands 183cm tall, weighs 42kg and is styled in a business suit with glasses, while the female version measures 168cm in height and weighs 35.2kg, featuring a slender frame and refined facial detailing.
According to company representatives, the robots are equipped with 88 high‑mobility joints and a dual‑pivot bionic neck, enabling them to replicate most everyday human movements, including embracing and dancing. A dual‑processor system allows responses within 500 milliseconds, while lip‑sync delay is said to be as low as 20 milliseconds, reducing the mechanical feel during conversation. Each unit supports Wi‑Fi connectivity and can operate continuously for between two and four hours on a single charge.
The U1 series also integrates a proprietary emotional large language model designed for long‑term companionship. It is capable of recognising more than 20 subtle emotional states, with the company claiming an accuracy rate exceeding 90 per cent. UBTech added that interaction data are encrypted and stored locally, without mandatory cloud uploads.
Pre‑orders opened in early June and quickly generated widespread online discussion, with some describing the devices as “robot boyfriends” or “cyber girlfriends”. Industry observers suggest the primary market will consist of single urban adults and fans of virtual or anime culture, though experts have cautioned that ethical concerns, copyright issues and data protection compliance could pose challenges.
Mainland media have also quoted technology specialists as saying that current humanoid robots remain closer to sophisticated interactive devices than fully functional assistants, warning that novelty may fade over time if practical applications remain limited.