Helpers that don't age: China’s UBTech Unveils $20K humanoid robot to support the elderly

Forget cats, dogs, and nurses, a humanoid robot is set to be a new companion for elders at home.

As China’s population grows older and the service of assistance for elders is gaining demand, in comes humanoids. A so-called “home companion” that can serve as a household buddy and do chores will be released this year. Its makers estimate that the robot will be used by a whopping 30% of elderly Chinese.

China’s UBTech Robotics Corp. is planning to sell the humanoid for $20,000, said Chief Brand Officer Michael Tam. According to the interview he gave to Bloomberg this Friday, the humanoid is still in the making, years away from being able to fully take care of human beings.

As Cybernews has reported earlier, scientists working on different sets of robot features develop new human-like features at a stunning pace. From mimicking a complex system as the human musculoskeletal model, thus allowing a robot to have a unique walk, to showcasing robots folding towels non-stop.

Tam’s company, as well as other Chinese businesses, have been under pressure from competition in the country’s market as many are trying to put their foot in the door. This has escalated after the Chinese President Xi Jinping announced robotics and technologies as Beijing’s top priorities.

The government sees robotics as a key part of its strategy to support elderly citizens without overburdening the human workforce. UBTech’s vision for a home robot fits squarely into this national objective, positioning the company to benefit from state-backed incentives and funding.

UBTech isn’t the only company ready to invite itself into people’s homes by making “caring” humanoids. Tech giants like Tesla are also eyeing this emerging market.

Elon Musk’s Optimus project, revealed in 2022, aims to create humanoids capable of performing domestic tasks. However, the company, as well as UBTech, has said the robots are still in early production with it expected to ramp up by 2026.

Tesla’s humanoid is said to cost $20,000–$30,000 once it reaches the market.