Chinese Startup Introduces AI Humanoid Robot Priced at $27,500

Dobot, a Chinese robotics startup, is accepting preorders for its AI humanoid robot, the Dobot Atom, priced at $27,500. The robot performs various household tasks and mass production is expected to start mid-year. Midea Group also revealed a prototype humanoid robot. Experts anticipate that humanoid robots will soon be produced at more accessible prices, highlighting a substantial market potential in China.

A Chinese robotics startup, Dobot, has announced the availability of preorders for its advanced AI-powered humanoid robot, the Dobot Atom, priced at 199,000 yuan ($27,500). The company, based in Shenzhen, aims to commence mass production by mid-year. The robot performs several household tasks, including preparing breakfast, pouring milk, toasting bread, and transporting items, as demonstrated in a promotional video released last week.

Standing at 153 centimeters tall and weighing 62 kilograms, Dobot has established itself since its inception in 2015, expanding to international markets including Japan, Germany, and the United States. The launch of its preorder sales was officially announced on Tuesday. Additionally, Midea Group, a major Chinese home appliance manufacturer, introduced a prototype of its humanoid robot capable of tasks such as handshaking, dancing, unscrewing caps, and driving screws, according to local media reports.

Industry experts, including Ma Jihua, noted that the emergence of humanoid robots indicates a significant advancement in China’s robotic production capabilities. Ma believes that the pricing of such products will become comparable to televisions over the next few years. Furthermore, he stated, “China offers a vast market for robotic applications, with immense potential in areas such as eldercare, children’s educational assistance, and household chores.”

In February, President Xi Jinping engaged with technology entrepreneurs, encouraging efforts to foster quality growth within the private sector, as reported by the official Xinhua News Agency. Amidst increasing competition with the United States in the tech domain, Premier Li Qiang highlighted in a recent government report the commitment to enhance self-reliance in science and technology and to support the development of intelligent robots and new energy vehicles.

The introduction of the Dobot Atom reflects China’s growing engagement in humanoid robotics, which is set to enter mass production soon. With the support of government initiatives aimed at technology advancement, the country is positioned to become a leader in robotic applications, particularly in domestic roles such as eldercare and education. The evolving landscape indicates a promising future for AI-powered robotics in consumer markets.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net