Scientists in China are developing the world’s first “pregnancy robot” capable of carrying a baby to term and giving birth. The humanoid will feature an artificial womb that provides nutrients through a hose, with a prototype expected next year for around £10,000. “The technology is already mature,” said Dr. Zhang Qifeng, founder of Kaiwa Technology, adding that the goal is to replicate pregnancy from conception to delivery.
The project has sparked fierce debate online. Supporters see it as a breakthrough that could reduce pregnancy risks and help infertile couples. Critics, however, call it unnatural and worry it could deprive babies of maternal connection. Questions also remain over egg sourcing and the ethics of replacing human pregnancy.
Similar artificial wombs have kept premature lambs alive for weeks, but this robot aims to support life from conception. With infertility rates in China rising, some believe it could become a future fertility solution. Whether seen as innovation or controversy, the idea of a “robot mother” is challenging our understanding of birth itself. Would you trust a machine to carry your child?
