When a child's robot companion disappears
A robot designed to support neurodivergent children has become unavailable after its maker went out of business and shut down its servers, leaving families without access to a tool they relied on.
A child who relied on a social robot called Moxie for emotional support and companionship has lost that companion after the device's maker shut down and its servers went offline. According to MIT Technology Review, Moxie was a 15-inch robot designed to help neurodivergent children practise social skills and manage anxiety. Parents rushed to download data from their devices before the servers closed entirely.
The case illustrates both the potential and the risks of AI-powered companion toys. Such robots can offer genuine therapeutic value to children who benefit from structured interaction and emotional support. However, when companies fail or cease operations, users—often families with limited resources—lose access to tools they have come to depend on. The incident raises questions about the durability and sustainability of consumer AI products, particularly those marketed for vulnerable populations.