1X Technologies, a Norwegian-American robotics firm established in 2014 by roboticist Bernt Børnich, has officially launched its innovative humanoid robot, named NEO. Standing at approximately 5 feet 6 inches and weighing 66 pounds, NEO is engineered to assist with various household tasks while simultaneously learning from interactions with its users. As interest in home robotics rises, NEO aims to stand out in this burgeoning market.
Preorders and Pricing
Preorders for NEO have commenced at a price point of $20,000, with the initial units expected to be delivered in the United States starting in 2026. For consumers who prefer not to make a full payment upfront, 1X Technologies offers a subscription model priced at $499 per month, providing a flexible option for potential users. To secure a preorder, interested customers can place a refundable deposit of $200.
Innovative Features and Technology
NEO’s design incorporates advanced technology that enables smooth and quiet movement, mimicking the human musculoskeletal system through tendon-driven actuators. With an impressive 75 degrees of freedom throughout its body and 22 degrees in each hand, NEO can perform a variety of daily activities, including opening doors, fetching items, turning off lights, and even taking out the trash. The robot has the capability to lift weights of up to 154 pounds and carry up to 55 pounds, making it a robust aide in home environments.
Equipped with stereo fisheye cameras and beamforming microphones, NEO boasts enhanced environmental awareness, allowing it to navigate its surroundings effectively. At its core, NEO operates on 1X’s NEO Cortex, powered by NVIDIA hardware, which supports sophisticated AI models designed to understand context and improve through user interactions. However, while NEO can perform many tasks independently, more complex actions still require human involvement, highlighting the ongoing need for a “human-in-the-loop” approach in its operation.
Practicality and Future Prospects
The robot’s battery life extends to approximately four hours, with a quick recharge cycle, and it is capable of walking, climbing stairs, sitting, kneeling, and recovering from falls. Although the body of NEO resists splashes, it is important to note that only its hands are fully waterproof. The long-term vision for NEO is to emerge as the most accessible humanoid robot for consumers.
In a competitive landscape, where products such as Tesla’s Optimus remain in the prototype stage and companies like Figure AI and XPENG are yet to initiate consumer preorders, NEO stands out as the first humanoid robot available for general purchase or rental. The anticipated operating costs for NEO are expected to be manageable, likely under $1 per day for electricity. The initial purchase price includes premium support and a three-year warranty, all of which contribute to its appeal.
As the market for humanoid robotics continues to evolve, addressing privacy concerns and demonstrating the robot’s autonomy and safety in everyday use will be crucial for widespread adoption. For now, NEO positions itself as a leading option in the consumer humanoid robotics sector, paving the way for future innovations.
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