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China's $173K Lifelike Robot Moya Blurs Human-Machine Lines

Yahoo Finance •
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Shanghai-based robotics startup DroidUp has unveiled Moya, a humanoid robot designed to look and feel remarkably human. Standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 70 pounds, the robot features advanced facial expressions, fluid movements, and customizable appearances including swappable gender-specific parts and adjustable hairstyles.

What sets Moya apart is its biometric design. Beneath the silicone exterior lies flesh-like padding and a ribcage structure, while a heating system maintains body temperature between 90 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit. A camera behind the eyes enables real-time environmental tracking and communication. Founder Li Quingdu says the goal is creating machines that feel warm and approachable rather than cold and mechanical.

The robot carries a hefty price tag of $173,000 and is slated for release in late 2026, targeting healthcare companies as social companions. This launch comes amid rapid advancements in China's robotics sector, following another Shanghai company's humanoid robot completing a 100-kilometer unassisted walk in 2025.