At the international robotics conference, Chinese company Kaiwa Technology unveiled a concept for a humanoid robot designed to gestate human embryos until birth. This news comes from the portal Interesting Engineering.
According to the company's founder, Dr. Zhang Qifen, the device will feature an artificial womb located within the humanoid's abdominal cavity, where the embryo will develop in a synthetic amniotic environment. Nutritional supply will be provided through a specialized tube. Developers claim that the technology has reached a "mature stage," with the first model expected by 2026. The estimated cost of the device is $14,000. The company positions this project as an alternative for couples or individuals looking to avoid biological pregnancy.
However, medical experts criticize the initiative due to a lack of technical details regarding fertilization stages, embryo implantation, and childbirth processes. Concerns are also raised about the inability to replicate the mother's hormonal environment and the establishment of emotional bonds with the child. Despite the criticism, some proponents believe this could be a potential way to avoid the stresses and risks associated with pregnancy. Kaiwa Technology has already begun discussions with regulatory bodies about the legal aspects of bringing this project to fruition.
