China plans to debut a humanoid pregnancy robot with an artificial womb by 2026, offering a cheaper alternative to surrogacy.
China is preparing to unveil the world’s first humanoid robot with a fully functioning artificial womb, a move experts say could transform reproductive science.
Developed by Kaiwa Technology in Guangzhou, the breakthrough project is scheduled for a 2026 debut, according to Indian Times. The company’s project lead, Zhang Qifeng, told delegates at the World Robot Conference in Beijing that research had reached a stable scientific foundation, with the next step focused on integrating the artificial womb into a humanoid robot for “interactive pregnancy.”
Artificial womb technology, which mimics the uterine environment using synthetic amniotic fluid and a nutrient-delivering umbilical-like tube, has been tested in animals. In 2017, U.S. scientists kept premature lambs alive in “biobags,” proving the concept’s viability.
Unlike earlier attempts, Kaiwa’s robot is designed to manage the full cycle, from fertilisation to delivery.
With an estimated cost of 100,000 yuan (£11,000), the innovation may emerge as a cheaper alternative to surrogacy, particularly amid rising infertility rates in China.