Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-11-22 10:34Core Viewpoint - The development of humanoid robots, particularly the IRON robot by Xiaopeng Motors, raises concerns about the "Uncanny Valley Effect," which suggests that as robots become more human-like, they may evoke discomfort or fear in users if they reach a certain level of realism [2][3]. Group 1: Development and Features of IRON Robot - Xiaopeng Motors plans to mass-produce the IRON humanoid robot by the end of 2026, with a focus on its groundbreaking human-like design and commercial potential [2]. - The IRON robot has been noted for its natural and fluid movements, achieved by increasing the passive degrees of freedom in its toes, allowing it to walk in a manner compared to "catwalk" or "spacewalk" [4]. - The robot features distinct gender characteristics, indicating a design choice aimed at enhancing its human-like appearance [4]. Group 2: Market Strategy and User Acceptance - Xiaopeng Motors emphasizes the importance of user experience and acceptance, noting that different robot forms cater to varying application needs and user preferences [5]. - The inclusion of skin-like features in the robot has reportedly made users, including women, more comfortable approaching it, highlighting a significant shift in user interaction [5]. - The company believes that the future of humanoid robots lies in their ability to be versatile, human-like, and safe, aiming to become true companions in various settings, including homes and businesses [5].