The Rise of ‘Warm’ Robots: Are We Ready for Human-Like Companions?
Last year, the world witnessed a somewhat chaotic debut of humanoid robots at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing. While the event showcased the rapid advancements in robotics, it also highlighted the challenges – broken limbs and exhausted engineers were common sights. Now, a Shanghai-based robotics company, DroidUP, is pushing the boundaries even further, unveiling a robot named Moya that’s designed to be unsettlingly…human.
Beyond Mechanics: The Quest for Realistic Humanoid Robots
DroidUP’s Moya isn’t just about bipedal movement; it’s about creating a robot that feels more alive. The key? Human-like skin capable of maintaining a temperature between 89 and 96 degrees Fahrenheit. This seemingly small detail has sparked debate, with some suggesting it blurs the line between companion and something more. The company debuted Moya at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Robotics Valley, describing it as the “world’s first highly bionic robot that deeply integrates human aesthetics and advanced humanoid sports.”
Moya, customizable humanoid robot, makes debut in Shanghai, powered by DroidUp’s latest tech
Facial Expressions and Beyond: The Technology Behind the Illusion
Moya’s realism extends beyond temperature. The robot boasts a face capable of displaying a range of emotions – joy, anger, sorrow and happiness – and can even track a person’s gaze by adjusting its pupils. This level of detail, demonstrated in a video shared by Shanghai Media Group, is a significant leap forward. However, the illusion isn’t perfect. Demonstrations reveal stiff movements and audible clicks from the actuators, reminding observers that Moya is, a machine.
From Half Marathons to Human-Like Robots: DroidUP’s Evolution
DroidUP’s journey highlights the rapid evolution of robotics. Their Walker 2 robot, which impressively completed a half marathon in four hours and 25 minutes last year without needing a battery swap, demonstrated impressive endurance. Now, with Walker 3 – the platform underpinning Moya – the company has focused on compactness and lighter weight, enabling a more realistic humanoid form. Walker 3 also features advanced sensors for autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance.
The World Humanoid Robot Games: A Testing Ground for Innovation
The advancements showcased by DroidUP are mirrored in the broader context of the World Humanoid Robot Games. The 2025 games in Beijing saw over 500 robots from 280 teams competing in 26 events, including soccer, boxing, and even cleaning. The 2026 games are already being planned. These events serve as a crucial platform for testing and refining humanoid robot technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
FAQ
What is the purpose of making robots with human-like features?
DroidUP founder Li Qingdu believes a robot that truly serves human life should feel warm and connect with people on a more emotional level.
How accurate is Moya’s walking ability?
DroidUP claims 92% human-like walking accuracy, but observations suggest the actual figure may be lower.
What events were included in the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games?
The games featured 26 events, including boxing, football, cleaning, and sorting medicines.
What are your thoughts on the future of human-robot interaction? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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