A Chinese robotics company unveiled what it said is the world's first hyper-realistic humanoid robot built for mass production, marketing the AI-powered machine as a lifelong companion for single adults and senior citizens.

Shenzhen-based UBTech reportedly introduced its new U1 humanoid robot, which is equipped with emotional artificial intelligence and camera-equipped eyes that can detect when its owner appears stressed or tired.

The robot is offered in male and female versions, although the company said it is not designed to provide intimate relationships "for now."

Rather than focusing on household chores such as cooking or cleaning, UBTech said the U1 is intended to combat loneliness.

The robot is priced between 119,800 yuan (about $17,628.77) and 990,000 yuan (about $145,680.17), depending on the model.

"Our bionic robots can accompany you for a lifetime," Michael Tam, head of UBTech's UWorld brand, said during the product launch, according to The Independent. "It will never betray you, will always be loyal to you, and will love you unconditionally."

UBTech said the U1 has already attracted more than 13,000 pre-orders, targeting what the company described as China's "colossal market" of single and elderly people.

The unveiling comes as Beijing pushes to make humanoid robotics a key driver of future economic growth.

China has designated the sector as one of its 10 strategic industries for the 2026-30 period, with officials seeking to expand the use of robots beyond factories into broader everyday applications.

"Under the new framework, China is shifting its focus from traditional industrial automation to high-end, intelligence robotics integrated with artificial intelligence," International Federation of Robotics President Takayuki Ito told The Independent.

The U1 follows UBTech's Walker S2, unveiled last year, which the company said was the world's first humanoid robot capable of monitoring its own power supply and replacing its battery without human assistance, allowing it to operate "24/7."

Analysts said they expect China's humanoid robotics industry to expand significantly in the coming years. Barclays forecasts the country could deploy 11 million humanoid robots by 2035.

Morgan Stanley, however, estimated that only about 12,000 humanoid robots were sold in China last year, highlighting the industry's early stage despite growing government support and private investment.