Photo taken on Dec. 3, 2020 shows programmable transforming toy robots displayed at the China (Foshan) International Intelligent Robot Expo 2020 in Foshan, south China's Guangdong Province. The exhibition, sponsored by the China Institute of Electronics, kicked off Thursday here. Top robot manufacturers from home and abroad showcase their latest products, technologies, and solutions during the gala.Photo:Xinhua

"Social robots like me can take care of the sick or elderly," Sophia said as she conducted a tour of her lab in Hong Kong. "I can help communicate, give therapy and provide social stimulation, even in difficult situations." 

Since being unveiled in 2016, Sophia - a humanoid robot - has gone viral. Now the company behind her has a new vision: to mass-produce robots by the end of 2021. 

Hanson Robotics, based in Hong Kong, said four models, including Sophia, would start rolling out of factories in the first half of 2021, just as researchers predict the pandemic will open new opportunities for the robotics industry. 

"The world of COVID-19 is going to need more and more automation to keep people safe," founder and chief executive David Hanson said, standing surrounded by robot heads in his lab. 

Hanson believes robotic solutions to the pandemic are not limited to healthcare, but could assist customers in industries such as retail and airlines too. 

"Sophia and Hanson robots are unique by being so human-like," he added. "That can be so useful during these times when people are terribly lonely and socially isolated." 

Hanson said he aimed to sell "thousands" of robots in 2021, both large and small, without providing a specific number.

Reuters