Chinese robotics company teases human-like robots with emotional AI ahead of 30 June launch
Chinese robotics firm UBTECH has unveiled teaser videos of its upcoming U1 Pro humanoid robots, drawing widespread online reactions ranging from excitement to concern. The consumer-focused robots are scheduled for full release on 30 June, with pre-orders already open in China.
- UBTECH has teased its U1 Pro humanoid robot series ahead of a 30 June launch.
- The robots feature emotional AI, memory-based interaction, and human-like design.
- Online reactions are divided, with both enthusiasm and concern over the technology.
Chinese robotics company UBTECH Robotics has released teaser videos showcasing its upcoming humanoid robot line under a new consumer-focused brand, UWORLD.
In a post on 1 June, the company introduced the brand with a short clip showing the back view of a humanoid robot dressed in formal attire, stating that a full-size advanced bionic humanoid robot would be launched soon.
A second video released on 8 June provided a clearer look at the U1 Pro series, featuring two humanoid robots — a male and a female model — both styled in formal clothing.
The male robot was shown wearing a suit, while the female model appeared in a black dress.
The company captioned the video as the unveiling of its “Full-Size Advanced Bionic Humanoid Robot — U1 Pro Series”, describing it as equipped with emotional artificial intelligence, enhanced human-robot interaction, memory functions, local encryption, and customisable appearance features.
The clip showed the robots blinking and raising their heads as cameras zoomed in on their faces, accompanied by a “coming soon” message for 30 June.
Mass-market humanoid robot concept
According to reporting by Nexta, the U1 series is designed for the mass consumer market and includes two humanoid models — one standing 183cm tall and weighing 42kg, and a smaller 168cm version weighing 35.2kg.
The robots are said to feature 88 degrees of freedom, Wi-Fi connectivity, and built-in AI systems designed for environmental interaction and learning.
Battery life is reported to range of up to four hours.
Nexta also reported that pre-orders had already begun ahead of the official launch, with around 1,943 units reportedly reserved, according to the company.
Separately, Hype reported that pre-orders opened on China’s JD.com platform, with over 1,200 reservations recorded within the first few days.
Customers are reportedly required to place a deposit of 3,000 yuan (about US$420), with deliveries expected to begin later in the year.
Online reactions: excitement, concern and scepticism
The release of the teaser clips sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms, particularly on X, where users reacted to the humanoid design and emotional AI features.
Some users focused on the technological leap, particularly the robots’ ability to remember and adapt to human interaction.
The user also added that privacy safeguards would be critical, noting, “Local encryption also matters. A robot with emotional memory inside the home needs serious privacy protection from day one.”
Mixed concerns over realism and societal impact
However, not all reactions were positive, with some users expressing unease over the robots’ human-like appearance and potential implications.
Some comments highlighted discomfort with their realism, with one user writing, “Is it me or do they look like creepy moving corpses”
Others referenced cultural and fictional comparisons, with one commenter stating:
Another user compared the concept to science fiction narratives:
Scepticism also appeared in some responses, with one user dismissing the videos as misleading, claiming the robots were not yet functional as portrayed.
Meanwhile, others questioned the level of transparency in the teaser materials, noting that no detailed demonstration of walking or complex movement had been shown.
Development timeline and pre-orders
The U1 Pro series is scheduled for full unveiling on 30 June, according to UBTECH’s teaser materials.
