First impressions count as Chinese buyers open their homes to UBTech’s consumer humanoids

Companion robots start arriving in September, offering emotional interaction and novelty, but chores remain off the table – at least for now

“The happiest part is often the waiting,” Song said of his decision to buy the female version of the U1 Pro, made by Shenzhen-based UBTech Robotics.

Unlike industrial robots built for repetitive tasks in controlled settings, household humanoids must navigate unpredictable spaces, interact naturally with people, and eventually deliver real companion value – or even domestic help.

UBTech is among the first Chinese makers attempting the leap. The company said its U1 series had racked up 13,361 orders by June 30 – less than a month after opening pre-sales in early June – with initial deliveries scheduled to begin on September 16.

The line-up spans three models – Lite, Pro and Ultra – ranging from partial-body units to full-sized humanoids, with prices running from 119,800 yuan to 990,000 yuan. Designed primarily for emotional companionship, the robots were capable of facial expressions, voice interaction and artificial intelligence-driven conversations, according to the company.