China’s dominance in robotics
Internationally, the project is viewed as a symbol of China’s growing influence in the robotics industry. According to Futurezone, as early as 2024, nearly two-thirds of all global robotics patents originated from China. The Chinese company Unitree has even launched the R1 – a humanoid robot designed for home use. While the United States and Russia focus heavily on military applications, Germany’s efforts are directed primarily toward industrial robotics. As Evertiq reports, German industry leads the European market with an automation rate of around 40%.
Community torn between amazement and unease
Reactions to the YouTube video range from awe to unease. Many viewers praise the technical achievement, calling the Origin M1 the “most realistic robot face to date.” Others describe it as “creepy” or “disturbing,” particularly because of its unnatural blinking and fixed gaze. One moment – when a lens flashes in the eye – is frequently described as “disturbingly real.” Despite the discomfort, some responses are more lighthearted: “All he needs is sunglasses and a motorcycle,” one user jokes, referencing the Terminator.
