Humanoid Robot ‘Uncle Bot’ Charms China With Dadcore Style and Viral Vibes
- tech360.tv
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
A humanoid robot dressed in casual gym wear has become an internet sensation in China, earning the nickname “Uncle Bot” for his relaxed fashion and lifelike movements.
The robot, a Unitree G1 model, gained viral fame after a video showed it jogging downhill in loose shorts, a T-shirt, and sneakers. The clip, originally posted on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, quickly spread to X, where it amassed over 80 million views.
In the video, Uncle Bot moves with surprising agility and balance, swinging its arms and swaying its shorts in a manner that many viewers compared to a middle-aged man on a casual jog.
Since the video went viral, Uncle Bot has been seen visiting temples, waving at passersby, and posing for photos with fans. Its human-like gait and relaxed wardrobe have made it a beloved figure online, with many treating it like a friendly uncle on holiday.
In one clip, the robot strolls through a scenic rural area, pausing to wave at locals. In another, it watches children play basketball with a stillness that suggests quiet judgment. In yet another, it walks a robot dog, resembling a retiree enjoying a morning routine.
The robot behind the viral fame is the Unitree G1, developed by Chinese robotics firm Unitree. Priced from around USD 16,000, the G1 is built for advanced mobility, autonomous behaviour, and human interaction.
It features 3D LiDAR sensors, an Intel RealSense D435i depth camera, a microphone array, and multi-jointed limbs that allow it to walk, run, and navigate uneven terrain. It also includes a 5W speaker and a 2-hour battery life for outdoor use.
Unitree has not confirmed whether Uncle Bot’s popularity is part of a marketing campaign, but the attention has drawn global interest in the G1’s capabilities.
Online users have compared the robot’s balance and movement to early Boston Dynamics prototypes, noting that Uncle Bot brings more personality to the table.
Whether a planned stunt or the work of a dedicated owner, Uncle Bot’s rise highlights a shift in robotics: humanoid machines are stepping out of labs and into everyday life.
Uncle Bot is a Unitree G1 humanoid robot that went viral in China
The robot gained fame for its casual “dadcore” outfit and lifelike movements
Videos show it jogging, waving, and walking a robot dog
Source: INTERESTING ENGINEERING