Startup Creates Robot With Human Temperature
Shanghai-based startup Droid Up has introduced "Moya," a humanoid robot designed to match human body temperature. This innovation aims to make interactions feel more human-like, with potential applications in customer service and caregiving roles.
- DroidUp founder Li Qingdu stated the goal for Moya is to create a robot that is "warm, almost like a living being that people can connect with," rather than a cold machine. The robot stands 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighs around 70 pounds, and its body temperature is maintained between 90-97 degrees Fahrenheit (32-36 degrees Celsius). - Moya is built on a modular platform with a "Walker 3" skeleton, allowing for customization of its appearance between male and female builds without altering the internal mechanics. A camera behind its eyes enables it to interact with people and display micro-expressions. - The robot is expected to enter the market in late 2026 with a projected cost of around $173,000. DroidUp is targeting healthcare companies and advertising the robot as a "social companion." - The global humanoid robot market was valued at approximately $4.87 billion in 2025 and is projected to exceed $165 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate of over 50%. The service sector, including personal assistance and caregiving, is the largest segment of this market. - This development aligns with China's ambitious national goal to mass-produce humanoid robots by 2025 and establish a reliable industry supply chain. - The market for elder care assistive robots, a key target for human-like robots, is projected to grow from over $3 billion in 2025 to nearly $10 billion by 2033. Studies have shown that social robots can help reduce depression and loneliness in older adults. - The field of humanoid robotics includes competitors like Tesla's Optimus and Boston Dynamics' Atlas, which are focused on industrial and labor applications, and 1X's NEO, which is designed for home environments.
