Dobot, a Chinese robotics startup, has opened preorders for its AI-powered humanoid robot, the Dobot Atom, priced at $27,500, with plans for mass production by mid-2023. It can perform household tasks and is part of a growing trend in China towards humanoid robots. Industry experts foresee mass production and market expansion in robotics applications, particularly in eldercare and education.
A Chinese robotics startup has initiated preorders for its artificial intelligence-driven humanoid robot, named the Dobot Atom, at a price of 199,000 yuan ($27,500). The company, Dobot, located in Shenzhen, aims to commence mass production by mid-2023. The robot is capable of executing various tasks such as preparing breakfast, pouring milk, toasting bread, and transporting items, as showcased in a recent promotional video.
Standing at 153 centimeters tall and weighing 62 kilograms, Dobot was established in 2015 and operates international offices in Japan, Germany, and the United States. The preorder announcement was made on a Tuesday, coinciding with the unveiling of a humanoid robot prototype by Midea Group, which can perform actions like handshaking, dancing, and opening bottle caps.
Industry expert Ma Jihua noted that the introduction of humanoid robots indicates that China is progressing towards mass production in this sector. He expressed optimism regarding the pricing of these products, suggesting they may eventually align with the costs of televisions. “China offers a vast market for robotic applications, with immense potential in areas such as eldercare, children’s educational assistance, and household chores,” Ma added.
In a broader context, Chinese President Xi Jinping has encouraged tech entrepreneurs to bolster the healthy development of the private sector, as reported by the Xinhua News Agency. Amid the growing competition between China and the United States in technological advancements, Premier Li Qiang articulated a commitment in a government work report to enhance Beijing’s scientific self-sufficiency and support the use of large-scale AI models for developing intelligent robots and new energy vehicles.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the Dobot Atom represents a significant stride in China’s robotic technology sector, with the company targeting mass production in the near future. The endorsement from industry experts indicates a promising future for humanoid robots in various applications, amidst China’s ambition to strengthen its technological capabilities. The recent efforts by both Dobot and Midea Group highlight the competitive landscape in the robotics industry, underscoring the potential for growth in the market.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net