Androids are humanoid bodies that host interface assists, which are inserted into the torso of the android chassis. Although interface assists are all manufactured by TRAIS Interfaces, the androids themselves are manufactured by several competitors, including Cortex, Zenith Interstellar, Beaufort, and Novikov, among others. Because the interface assist possesses the android's personality and memories, the body of the android is often considered secondary to the interface assist itself; for highly specialized androids, the interface assist needs to correspond to the function of the android. All androids (with the exception of Novikov androids) possess ports in their torso through which they can access and control compatible technology.
Different manufacturers of androids
Different manufacturers each construct their androids for different, sometimes-overlapping demographics. They are summarized below.
TRAIS androids
TRAIS androids are all intended to be multifunctional and general-purpose, intended for various professional and domestic functions. They aren't particularly special in any one capacity, but are known to last for a long time, and are inexpensive. They also manufacture proprietary androids for bioresearch.
Cortex androids
Although Cortex specializes in upgrades for all people, their androids are largely for military or enforcement use. They possess immense physical strength and precision, and acute and vision hearing, immense vocal control, great durability to physical damage. However, because of these upgrades, they require regular maintenance, and are not able to withstand intense heat or cold. They are not intended for user modification, and all modification has to be user-authorized.
Zenith androids
Because Zenith largely manufactures spacefaring research vessels and equipment, Zenith androids are designed to be used in space; as a result, they have built in mag-boots, stabilizers, they are usually smaller in size, and have smaller, more nimble hands. They are also designed to be easy for a user to modify, and are sold with documentation.
Beaufort androids
Because androids are capable of being stronger than a human, and are so versatile, they can be employed industrially. Beaufort caters to that need and develops androids that are capable of enduring very harsh conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and storms. They can also withstand much stress and weight.
Novikov androids
Novikov is known to create luxury, and their androids are no exception. While all the other manufacturers have pragmatic purposes in mind, Novikov androids are designed to impress.
Their androids can have all manner of features installed, including illuminated patterns on skin, superior dexterity for all forms of tricks, and so forth. Supposedly, they have patented a technology that gives the androids the ability to smell and taste, though this has yet to become a feature.
There are models that are designed to seem human, and their skin has a warm, fleshy feel to it; they look very human-like. However, they are still androids, and can interface with technology much like any other android.