(Web Desk) - It's a concept that currently only exists in sci–fi movies. But scientists in China are developing the world's first 'pregnancy robot' capable of carrying a baby to term and giving birth. The humanoid will be equipped with an artificial womb that receives nutrients through a hose, experts said. A prototype is expected to be released next year, with a selling price of around 100,000 yuan (£10,000).

Dr Zhang Qifeng, who founded the company Kaiwa Technology, is developing the machine. The device he envisions is not simply an incubator but a humanoid that can replicate the entire process from conception to delivery, Asian media outlets report. He said the artificial womb technology is already in a 'mature stage' and now needs to be implanted in the robot's abdomen, 'so that a real person and the robot can interact to achieve pregnancy'.

With regards to ethical and legal issues, he said: 'We have held discussion forums with authorities in Guangdong Province and submitted related proposals while discussing policy and legislation.' Experts have not yet provided any specifics on how the egg and sperm are fertilised and implanted in the artificial womb.

Dr Zhang's revelations were made during an interview shared on Duoyin, the Chinese version of TikTok. News of the development sparked intense discussion across Chinese social media, with critics condemning the technology as ethically problematic and unnatural. Many argued that depriving a foetus of maternal connection was cruel, while questions were raised about how eggs would be sourced for the process. However, many showed support for the innovation, viewing it as a means to spare women from pregnancy–related suffering.

One wrote: 'Many families pay significant expenses for artificial insemination only to fail, so the development of the pregnancy robot contributes to society.' Previously, scientists have successfully kept premature lambs alive for weeks using an artificial womb that looks like a plastic bag. The 'biobag' provided everything the foetus needed to continue growing and maturing, including a nutrient–rich blood supply and a protective sac of amniotic fluid. 'The real question now is, will men, once the artificial womb is perfected, want to keep women around?'