ZTE's iMoochi: An AI Companion Beyond the Cute Factor

ZTE, in an ambitious move, unveiled its AI companion device named iMoochi at the 2026 Mobile World Congress. This development marks a significant expansion in ZTE's AI hardware lineup, aiming to redefine how users interact with technology. But, can a device truly simulate companionship?

Interactive Features

The iMoochi offers four distinct models, each equipped with touch sensors and voice recognition capabilities. These features allow the device to respond to physical and verbal interactions, bringing a new dimension to user engagement. Mechanical movements like head shaking or tail wagging add to the simulation of a lifelike presence.

the device communicates through a customized audio language, simulating states such as hunger and temperature sensitivity. This is all tracked via a companion mobile app. What the English-language press missed: this level of interaction could herald a shift in how we perceive AI companions, not just as tools, but as entities that can adapt and respond in nuanced ways.

Beyond Just a Toy

The real question is, will iMoochi alter our perception of AI's role in everyday life? This device isn't just for children. it's designed for all ages. It challenges the typical notion of AI as mere assistants or entertainment.

Alongside iMoochi, ZTE also showcased the Nubia M153 smartphone, co-developed with ByteDance. This device features system-level integration with the Doubao AI assistant, further illustrating the growing trend of AI systems executing complex cross-app commands. The benchmark results speak for themselves: AI is becoming ever more embedded in our daily tech use.

Western coverage has largely overlooked this potential shift. The implications of AI devices like iMoochi extend far beyond novelty. They may reshape how society understands interaction and companionship, blending the lines between the virtual and the real.