The rise of artificial intelligence and robotics is taking an interesting turn in China. A popular Chinese social media influencer, Zhang Genyuan, recently made headlines after spending $1,400 per day to rent a humanoid robot for daily tasks and even a date. The video, which features Zhang interacting with the Unitree Robotics G1, has since gone viral, igniting discussions about the potential of AI-powered companions.
Zhang, a 25-year-old economics graduate from New York University with over 1.4 million followers, posted his experience on social media on March 13. The humanoid robot G1, developed by China’s Unitree Robotics, retails for approximately ¥99,000 (around $13,800) and boasts impressive mobility. Currently, the daily rental price for G1 can go as high as $2,200, reflecting its growing popularity.
A Robot That Cooks, Cleans, and Goes on Dates
In Zhang’s video, the G1 humanoid robot showcases its various capabilities. It greets him in a friendly manner before attempting to cook breakfast by cracking eggs and pouring milk—though the results are far from perfect. The robot then tries to clean Zhang’s home, with mixed success. Later in the video, the influencer takes G1 on a stroll around the city, where curious onlookers stop to admire the futuristic companion.
The video quickly gained traction online, amassing more than 40,000 likes. Many viewers found the robot’s ability to respond and engage with Zhang fascinating, with some commenting that G1 could make a great companion due to its listening skills. However, others pointed out the limitations of current AI technology, as G1 struggled with basic household tasks.
The Future of Humanoid Robots in China
The growing interest in humanoid robots like G1 is not limited to social media experiments. Several robotics companies, including EngineAI, Pudu Robotics, and RobotEra, are making significant investments in AI-powered humanoids. In fact, China is taking major steps to become a global leader in this space.
Recently, Zhangjiang Group announced a partnership with Shanghai’s National and Local Humanoid Robot Innovation Center to develop a 5,000-square-meter robotics facility. The center aims to train over 100 humanoid robots at a time, with a long-term goal of expanding production to 1,000 units by 2027.
The rise of AI-driven robotics is also being reflected in global market projections. A Goldman Sachs Research report estimates that the humanoid robot market will reach approximately $38 billion by 2035, driven by technological advancements and increased adoption.
A New Era of AI-Powered Companionship?
Zhang’s viral video has sparked debates about the role of AI-powered robots in daily life. While humanoid robots like G1 are still in their early stages, their potential applications range from personal assistants to elderly care and even companionship. Some social media users joked about the idea of robots replacing human relationships, while others saw the technology as a step toward a more automated future.
For now, robots like G1 remain an expensive novelty. However, as AI and robotics continue to evolve, it may not be long before renting—or even owning—a humanoid assistant becomes a common part of everyday life.
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