At the 2025 World Robot Conference in Beijing, media relayed claims by Dr. Zhang Qifeng, founder of Kaiwa Technology, unveiling a humanoid robot equipped with an artificial womb. The prototype, according to these accounts, is slated for debut in 2026 and could cost around 12 lakh rupees (₹1.2 million)—a relative bargain compared to traditional surrogacy services.
Other outlets echoed this narrative, suggesting the robot would carry a fetus via a nutrient tube in its abdomen, aiming to revolutionize infertility treatment. Estimated price tags were reported at about 100,000 yuan (~$14,000).
What’s Actually Feasible—and What Isn’t
But here’s the reality check: Leading science publications have confirmed that the sensational “pregnancy robot” story is fictional. No verified research confirms such an invention, and NTU (Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University), cited in some reports, has denied any involvement.
That said, artificial womb technology—known as ectogenesis—is not science fiction. Researchers, for example at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), are developing systems like EXTEND, which supports extremely premature lambs using a fluid-filled environment to mimic the womb. While promising, this setup is strictly limited to aiding premature births, not replacing full-term pregnancy.
Experts point out that even if the machinery existed, replicating crucial processes—from embryo implantation, to nutrient and oxygen regulation, to infection prevention, and immune system support—presents monumental engineering and ethical challenges.
The Takeaway
So what’s going on here?
| Rumor | Reality |
|---|---|
| A robot will carry a baby from conception to birth by 2026 | No verified prototype or credible research supports this claim |
| A full artificial womb within a robot is already functional | Artificial womb technology exists only in preliminary, preclinical stages |
| Such a robot would cost about ₹12 lakh (~$14,000) | Price estimates are speculative and not backed by verifiable data |
Why This Matters
While the so-called “pregnancy robot” may be a hoax, discussions it ignites around biomedical innovation, fertility solutions, and ethical boundaries are increasingly relevant. As Dr. Zhang’s narrative circulated—regardless of authenticity—it spotlights public curiosity and scientific aspiration, while reminding us how important it is to separate fact from fiction.
