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Jack Ma’s Ant Group has entered the humanoid robot race with the launch of the R1 humanoid robot in Shanghai. The new machine was displayed at the 2025 Inclusion Conference, and it marks a strong step in China’s AI push.
The R1 is built to help with real-life tasks. It can act as a tour guide, sort medicine in pharmacies, give basic health advice, and even cook simple meals. The robot’s smart system allows it to plan, prepare, and serve food while learning new recipes over time.
Unlike many rivals, Ant is not just focused on robot parts, but on the “brain.” The R1 runs on the company’s large AI model BaiLing, which helps the robot think, learn, and adjust to new jobs. The model is trained on local chips, showing Ant’s move toward Chinese-made tech.
The robot is made with parts from local suppliers like Ti5 and Galaxea AI. Ant is also talking with Unitree Robotics and Orbbec to expand support. Experts say building hardware is essential, but a strong AI brain will decide which robot succeeds in the long run.
Currently, R1 is being tested in locations such as restaurants and care centers. However, Ant has not yet decided on the bot’s price or its public sale. In the future, the company aims for the robot to serve as a companion and caregiver at home, assisting with both health and daily tasks.
Ant Group is known worldwide for its digital payment system Alipay, but the company is now investing heavily in artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, it also launched a health app called AQ that studies medical reports and suggests doctors. Ant also bought Haodf.com, a Chinese healthcare platform, which fits with its plan to expand into smart medical support.
China already leads the world in robot use on factory floors. With the R1, it is now pushing service robots into everyday spaces. The R1 humanoid robot shows how machines powered by advanced AI could soon become part of homes, hospitals, and public services.
