Beijing World Robotics Show: UBTECH unveils its U1 Pro humanoid robots

Between fascination and slight discomfort, visitors to the Beijing World Robotics Show, which runs until August 23, were able to discover a whole range of “companion” robots with almost human features.

The Chinese group UBTECH notably presented its brand new model, the U1 Pro, a life-size android equipped with silicone skin, textures imitating pores and blood vessels, as well as a body temperature comparable to that of a human. The model, available in male and female versions, can reproduce micro-expressions thanks to 33 degrees of freedom on the face. It is also capable of interacting with a user without a wake word and recognizing more than twenty emotions, according to the manufacturer.

Intended for family support, helping the elderly or even high-end hospitality, the U1 Pro is marketed from 169,800 yuan, or around 20,000 euros. The range also includes a Lite model, priced from 14,000 euros, and an Ultra version which can reach 990,000 yuan, almost 118,000 euros.