“Robotics and especially humanoid robotics have incredible potential and will change the world just like AI and large language models are doing right now. However most current robots still fail to deliver real value. Devanthro chose an approach that already improves people’s lives with today’s technology while positioning them with a unique lead in training data and distribution. The technology has been proven in dozens of deployments; now it’s time to scale the early lead into a globally dominant position. This is where I want to help.”

Jonas will be working closely with the teams in several critical areas. As an Active Investor, his experience will support Devanthro’s founders as they scale Robody deployments, strengthen the organization, sharpen the strategic narrative, and expand partnerships.

“This unique approach creates a real competitive advantage. Devanthro can deliver a product that genuinely helps people instead of being a toy. This is not just a giant market opportunity but also getting this right is one of the most critical responsibilities of this generation if we want to make sure that the demographic change will not cause abandonment, suffering and pain. ”

His motivation is also personal.

“When my grandmother needed care, I would have wanted something like this. Just the ability to talk, to reduce loneliness, to be present and help out with small things. That alone would have justified the whole concept for me.”

Jonas believes Europe must act quickly to lead the coming robotics wave.

“What Devanthro needs now is speed. They have a proven approach and now they need to scale team, production and deployment. That requires capital, great people, and the right partners.”

A defining reason for his involvement is Devanthro’s stance on teleoperation.

“Most companies treat teleoperation as a temporary workaround because AI just isn’t there yet. And users are understandably hesitant to let foreigners into intimate areas at home – if only via remote control Here, teleoperation is a feature. It brings loved ones closer together and at the same turbocharges the AI flywheel improving the technology. This is exactly the right approach: help people now and accelerate technologically at the same time.”

Bavarian State Minister for Family, Work & Social Ulrike Scharf clearly loved the rose from Robody!

We loved the energy in the room: people genuinely excited to see technology that connects. Having Minister Ulrike Scharf (Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Familie, Arbeit und Soziales) there, championing women who are building technology that matters, gave the evening an extra spark. This kind of support makes a difference not just for founders, but for the whole ecosystem. Big thanks to Jusra Al-Kaisi and Susanne Traugott for inviting us to pitch and for creating a space where founders can connect, share, and inspire each other.

Munich Urban Colab Photos: Martina Noetel

Because in the care world there are never enough hands, never enough hours, and way too much distance between the people who need care and the people who can provide it. They’ve sat through a hundred “revolutionary tech” pitches that miss the point entirely.

This didn’t miss the point, and we are extremely grateful for the curiosity and energy we’ve been welcomed with. Huge shoutout to the Social Service Society of the Bavarian Red Cross for gathering this incredible group and creating space for real conversations about the future of care. P.S. Next time we promise to remember to take more photos. Maybe. If we’re not too busy being excited.

She’s been named to Women in Robotics ‘2025 annual list, a celebration of the women driving robotics forward worldwide, not just through engineering brilliance, but by making tech actually matter.

A huge thank you to the Women in Robotics community for shining a light on role models like Alona, and to everyone in robotics working to make tech more human and inclusive.

Read more about these amazing women: https://womeninrobotics.substack.com/p/women-in-robotics-you-need-to-know

https://www.techne-talent.com/view/behind-the-robot-rafael-hostettler-founder-amp-ceo-at-devanthro—the-robody-company

It is one of the most exciting topics of our time: humanoid robots. What they can really do and how they will change our lives. Elon Musk already has them dancing on TikTok, ironing and mixing cool cocktails at the bar. But the truth is: it’s all fake, as it now turns out.

Star investor Frank Thelen predicts: “In five years, every one of us will have a humanoid robot at home.” But is that true? He tells us: Rafael Hostettler. Superbrain from Switzerland in Computer Science and Engineering. His robot is the beacon of hope for the healthcare sector. He is the first humanoid robot ever to be able to enter private homes and look after people in need of care. The name Robody. 1.60 m tall, weighs 60 kilos. I have now met Robody in the Munich Urban Colab innovation lab and tested him personally.

Listen to the Podcast (in German): https://tomorrow.podigee.io/262-mister-robot-dieser-mensch-will-ein-roboter-werden