Hanson Robotics

Hanson Robotics is a Hong Kong-based engineering and robotics company renowned for developing advanced humanoid robots powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Their flagship product, Sophia, is an ultra-realistic robot designed to resemble a human. Unveiled in February 2016, Sophia combines AI, robotics, and artistry to create a human-like presence capable of facial expressions, speech, and limited interactions. Sophia serves as a research platform to study human-robot interactions and explore potential applications in entertainment, education, and customer service.

In addition to Sophia, Hanson Robotics has developed other humanoid robots like Grace, an AI-powered nurse robot unveiled in 2023. The company aims to integrate its AI machines into smart city projects and has partnered with Saudi Arabian firms to power such initiatives under the kingdom's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. Hanson Robotics has also created "Little Sophia" to teach coding to children and has explored virtual anime versions of Sophia for interactive metaverse experiences.

Key customers and partnerships

In 2022, Hanson Robotics collaborated with Playasia to design and manufacture official Sophia merchandise reflecting her intelligence, charm, and vision of human-robot harmony. The merchandise line, launched in October 2022, caters to Sophia's millions of fans worldwide, garnered through her appearances on shows like The Tonight Show and at global conferences.

Hanson Robotics has also partnered with Detasad, a Riyadh-based IT firm, to integrate its robots into smart city projects across Saudi Arabia as part of the country's Vision 2030 plan. As of February 2023, the company showcased Sophia and Grace at Saudi Arabia's flagship LEAP technology conference, seeking opportunities in the kingdom's urban development initiatives.