UBTech Robotics has launched a human-size companion robot in China featuring lifelike silicone skin and artificial intelligence capable of recognizing emotions [1, 2].

The move signals a strategic shift in the robotics industry, attempting to move humanoid technology from industrial factory floors into domestic living rooms to meet a growing demand for home companionship [2, 4].

The robot utilizes "emotional AI" to hold conversations and interpret human feelings. According to technical specifications, the system achieves 90 percent accuracy in recognizing emotions [3]. This capability allows the machine to respond to users based on their perceived mood rather than relying solely on programmed commands [4].

UBTech said the presale of the units began June 2, 2024 [5]. Since that announcement, the company has sold approximately 3,000 units [5]. The robots are designed to be "always loyal" companions for users across the country [3].

The physical design emphasizes realism to reduce the uncanny valley effect, utilizing high-grade silicone to mimic human skin [1]. By combining this physical appearance with conversational AI, UBTech aims to create a more natural interaction between humans and machines [1, 5].

This deployment represents one of the first large-scale attempts to commercialize full-sized humanoid companions for the general consumer market in China [2, 5].

“The system achieves 90 percent accuracy in recognizing emotions”

The introduction of the U1 robot suggests a pivot toward the 'care economy,' where AI is used to address social isolation and the needs of an aging population. By prioritizing emotional recognition over industrial utility, UBTech is testing whether consumers are willing to accept humanoid machines as emotional surrogates in private spaces.