BooBoo, produced by Hangzhou Genmoor Technology, is designed to interact with humans and costs approximately 1,400 yuan ($190).

Zhang's relationship with Aluo has improved her communication with her parents, allowing her to express her worries more openly.

Having struggled with anxiety and forming friendships, Zhang feels her life has significantly improved since acquiring her AI smart pet.

Since its launch in May 2025, about 1,000 units of BooBoo have been sold, indicating a growing trend in China of using AI to combat social isolation.

Zhang's father, Peng, acknowledges the pressures on today's youth, which may lead to fewer friendships and increased reliance on AI companions for emotional support.

The rise of AI companions is linked to social changes in China, including the effects of the one-child policy, which has increased emotional needs among individuals.

Experts note that AI products enhance well-being by providing cognitive stimulation for those feeling isolated, sometimes fostering more trust than human interactions.

The global market for social robots like BooBoo is projected to grow to $42.5 billion by 2033, with significant demand in Asia.

Guo Zichen, a father in Nanjing, considers smart pets like Weilan's BabyAlpha as tools to help his child with emotional support, despite skepticism about their ability to replace real pets.

BabyAlpha's price ranges from 8,000 yuan ($1,090) to 26,000 yuan ($3,500), with 70% of buyers being families with young children.

Zhang Yachun, a 19-year-old from Beijing, has found companionship and relief from anxiety through her AI-powered robot, which she named 'Aluo'.

Zhang enjoys taking Aluo on outings and expresses that it fulfills the role of a human friend, providing her with a sense of being needed.