Adding to this momentum, Shanghai-based startup DroidUp has introduced what it calls the world’s first biomimetic humanoid robot, named “Moya.” The company asserts that Moya goes beyond conventional robotics design, featuring a human-like physical structure and even replicating human body warmth.
Designed to Feel Human
Unlike traditional robots made from cold metal and plastic, Moya maintains a body temperature between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius (89–96 degrees Fahrenheit). According to the company, this range closely mirrors natural human warmth, allowing the robot to feel warm to the touch. Developers say the feature was intentionally engineered to foster a sense of comfort and emotional closeness, citing studies that associate warmth and touch with human bonding.
Standing 165 centimeters tall and weighing 32 kilograms, Moya will be offered in both male and female versions. Its outer form is designed to closely imitate human proportions and posture.
AI-Powered Interaction
Equipped with an artificial intelligence-enabled camera system, Moya can recognize individuals in front of it and engage in conversation. The robot is capable not only of verbal responses but also subtle facial expressions intended to simulate emotional cues.
DroidUp says Moya has been developed for use in commercial environments, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, with potential applications as a companion device aimed at reducing loneliness. The company highlights its ability to exhibit “human-like temperament and style” as a key differentiator in these sectors.
Mixed Public Reaction
Despite the technological ambitions, early public reaction has been divided. While DroidUp claims Moya’s walking pattern matches human gait by 92 percent, videos circulating online suggest that its movements still appear somewhat mechanical. Some social media users have described the robot’s facial expressions and walking style as unsettling, while others have praised it as a significant leap forward in humanoid robotics.
Industry observers note that achieving full human likeness—both physically and behaviorally—remains one of the most complex challenges in robotics. Experts suggest that while Moya represents a notable advancement, further refinement will be necessary before such robots can seamlessly blend into human environments.
Commercial Rollout Planned
DroidUp plans to launch Moya commercially by the end of the year. The initial price has been set at 1.2 million yuan (approximately $173,000). Due to its high cost and early-stage development, the robot will initially be targeted at large organizations rather than individual consumers.
As robotics companies continue pushing technological boundaries, Moya’s debut underscores a broader trend: the narrowing gap between humans and machines. Whether warmly embraced or cautiously scrutinized, humanoid robots like Moya are likely to shape the next chapter in human–technology interaction.