Hong Kong-based robotics company MangDang Technology has unveiled its latest creation – an AI-powered Santa Claus robot named HeySanta.
The HeySanta project builds on MangDang’s experience developing interactive educational robots. It will also be open-source, with the team promising to release its GitHub repository before the first units ship. Two models are in development – the standard HeySanta and the advanced HeySanta Pro, which adds expressive eye animations and real-time conversational features.
One of HeySanta’s standout features is its animated eyes, which can display emojis and expressions that match the robot’s mood or current activity. For example, when HeySanta functions as an alarm clock, its eyes flash alarm-bell icons to help children wake up cheerfully. Clad in a traditional red Santa outfit, the robot also features motorized movement control, allowing it to move with smooth precision.
Equipped with long-term memory, HeySanta’s personality grows smarter the more it interacts with users. Built on generative AI models, it learns conversational patterns and remembers user preferences over time. The robot supports voice chat, voice control, and motion capabilities, while the Pro version adds interruptible conversations and advanced eye animations for more lifelike engagement.
Weighing about 0.5 kilograms (1.1 pounds) and standing 12.8 inches tall, HeySanta can be powered via USB Type-C or AA batteries, offering flexibility for different setups. Its most educational feature is block programming, allowing kids to customize HeySanta’s behavior from singing songs and telling stories to performing simple routines.
Interestingly, MangDang decided not to include a camera, a move that enhances data privacy and security. Instead, the focus is on hands-on creativity and safe interaction. Each unit also comes with an AI Development Kit, designed to introduce children to coding and robotics in a playful, accessible way.
Founded in 2020, MangDang first gained attention with its Mini Pupper AI robot dog, inspired by Boston Dynamics’ Spot. The Mini Pupper was also open-source, using machine learning and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) to teach kids about navigation and robotics. That experience laid the foundation for HeySanta’s interactive educational design.
While HeySanta’s concept blends AI, storytelling, and holiday fun, its long-term success will depend on how children engage with it beyond the novelty factor. As an open-source project with limited hardware complexity, HeySanta’s true potential may rely on community-driven development and sustained user interest.