NEO stands about 5′6″, weighs roughly 66 lb (around 30 kg), and uses soft-fabric exterior design and articulated hands to navigate home environments. According to 1X, the robot is built to handle tasks such as fetching items, opening doors, switching off lights, folding laundry, and tidying up.

However, the company cautions that NEO is not fully autonomous at launch. In many cases, a remote human operator will assist via the robot’s cameras in learning new tasks. The robot’s body is not waterproof, and it is intended strictly for indoor use; cooking, heavy lifting, and outdoor chores remain outside its current capabilities.

Pre-orders are now live in the United States: one option is to buy the unit outright for USD 20,000; alternatively, 1X offers a subscription model at around USD 499 per month with a minimum six-month commitment. The company anticipates shipping to early adopters in 2026, with wider availability planned for 2027.

NEO represents one of the first attempts to bring humanoid robots into everyday private homes rather than industrial or research settings. CEO Bernt Øivind Børnich of 1X stated that humanoid robots have moved “from research to product”.

From a market perspective:

• It highlights a growing push to make consumer-level robots that go beyond fixed-function devices (like robot vacuums) into more general-purpose helpers.
• The price point remains very high, so initial adoption will likely be in affluent households or early-tech-enthusiasts rather than the mass market.
• The reliance on remote tele-operation suggests the technology still has work to do before fully independent robot assistants become commonplace.

Because NEO uses built-in cameras and can be remotely assisted by 1X staff, the company emphasises a “social contract” with users: home data helps the robot improve, but it brings added privacy and security implications.

Some commentators have raised concerns: one review notes that although marketed as autonomous, much of NEO’s functionality initially will depend on human-in-the-loop operation. For potential buyers, key questions include:

• How much access will remote operators have?
• How will home safety, data security, and reliability be managed?
• And will the robot’s cost and limitations justify the value compared to human help or simpler devices?

1X expects NEO to improve over time via software updates and machine learning from its deployment in homes. This means early buyers are not just consumers but part of the product’s ongoing evolution.

Competitors are also entering the space of home-friendly humanoid robots, so NEO’s real test will be how swiftly and reliably it can deliver meaningful help in everyday life, and whether it can move from niche to normal household adoption.

Why You Should Care

For anyone interested in smart homes, automation, or robotics, NEO signals a shift: you’re no longer just buying a smart speaker or self-vacuum, but potentially a humanoid companion that lives in your home. That raises exciting possibilities, and practical questions.

If you’re thinking about investing in advanced home robotics, this is a moment to watch, not just purchase. The price and new-product risks remain significant. If you follow tech trends or want early access to “robot living”, NEO is one to track.

At the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, the duchess exchanged smiles with Keparan, a light-blue fuzzy robot, waving and interacting playfully. Nearby, she observed a child gently patting a robotic dog, a scene that captured the fusion of warmth and technology at the heart of the museum’s exhibits.

But Sophie’s technology tour didn’t stop at novelty robots. She also tested an AI-powered suitcase designed to guide visually impaired users through spaces, pointing toward the evolving role of robotics in accessibility and mobility.

Meeting a Pioneer in Accessible Tech

While there, Sophie was introduced to Dr. Chieko Asakawa, the museum’s chief executive. Dr. Asakawa is known for creating one of Japan’s first digital braille systems. The two discussed how innovations on display contribute to more inclusive environments, especially for those with visual impairments.

Parallel Engagements by the Duke

Meanwhile, the Duke of Edinburgh followed his own engagement track in Tokyo. He spent part of his day visiting Seibi Home, a local children’s institution, and interacting with community members and educators connected with the British School in Tokyo.

The museum stop is part of a larger five-day state visit to Japan by the royal couple, which also included appearances in Osaka and meetings with Japanese dignitaries. That same evening, the two will split their engagements: the Duke attending a dinner with conservation groups, the Duchess meeting with individuals committed to advancing women’s causes in Japan.

This symbolic moment has become a potent symbol of how robotics is weaving its way into cultural rituals and public milestones. Shuang Shuang’s appearance wasn’t about academic achievement: no exams, no essays. Its role was ceremonial. The event showcased China’s fast‑growing robotics capabilities, demonstrating both a public spectacle and technological ambition.

China is heavily funding robotics development and accelerating humanoid innovation via both government and private players. This push is part of a broader “tech arms race” with the U.S., where AI-driven robotics is viewed as a strategic frontier.

In response, American companies like Tesla are racing ahead with their own humanoid prototypes (e.g., Optimus), and security robots, like robo-dogs, are even being deployed in sensitive locations such as Mar‑a‑Lago.

Seoul, South Korea, is now home to the world’s very first museum dedicated to the groundbreaking fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. The Seoul Robot & AI Museum (Seoul RAIM), designed by the Turkish architecture firm Melike Altınışık Architects, offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the cutting-edge technologies shaping our world.

RAIM isn’t just about showcasing the latest robots and AI innovations. It’s about creating a deeper connection between people and the technology that’s rapidly becoming an integral part of everyday life. You can see it from how robots can help in our tasks and how robot pets are becoming more emotionally connected with us.

“This museum isn’t just a place to look at cool tech,” said Melike Altınışık, the founder of Melike Altınışık Architects. “It’s all about building deeper connections between people and the technology shaping our future, offering experiences that are as exciting as they are meaningful.”.

From the moment you approach the museum, it’s clear that RAIM is unlike any other. The futuristic, dynamic design of the building, which some might liken to a spaceship, draws you in.

When RAIM appears on Seoul’s skyline, some folks might do a double take: Wait… is that a spaceship?” Altınışık joked. The design is meant to spark curiosity and wonder, inviting visitors to step inside and discover the endless possibilities of technology.

Inside, the museum immerses visitors in the world of robotics and AI, from interactive exhibits to “welcome robots” that greet guests upon arrival. The interior layout has been thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of exploration, creating a space where technology isn’t just displayed but experienced. Along with robots, the museum features various smart technologies that give a glimpse into how AI is revolutionizing our lives, from autonomous cars to AI-powered home systems.

What truly sets RAIM apart, however, is its innovative approach to architecture. The building is described as a “living exhibition,” where the architecture itself is part of the action. Altınışık explains, “At RAIM, the architecture isn’t just sitting there looking pretty. It’s part of the technology itself. This museum doesn’t merely house technology; it is technology.”

The museum is not just a snapshot of today’s advancements but a vision for the future. As Altınışık points out, RAIM is just the first of a series of robot and AI museums that will spread across the city, each evolving alongside the ever-changing technological landscape. “RAIM isn’t a static showcase, it’s designed to grow, adapt, and keep pace with the future.”.

With the goal to create a network of connected, interactive museums throughout Seoul, it’s clear to anyone what the future of AI and robots may be in South Korea. Starting with RAIM, one can just think about the possibilities of tech innovation and robot education in the near future.

Similar to other humanoid robotics firms, Sanctuary AI is focusing on creating Phoenix as human-like as possible in terms of movements. However, what sets said robot apart is how quickly it learns while costing much less than its “competitors”. The company claims that Phoenix is capable of automating new tasks in less than 24 hours, which is impressively quick for a humanoid robot.

“With generation seven, we have a system that we believe is the most closely analogous to a person of any available,” co-founder and CEO Geordie Rose says. “We see this as not only the cornerstone of general-purpose AI robotics but a critical step on the path to artificial general intelligence, and we’re thrilled to be leading the charge on it.”, says Rose.

Although the general consensus among many roboticists is that we’re still around five to ten years out from having robots that can learn as quickly as humans, the feat that Sanctuary AI has achieved with Phoenix is certainly a step toward said prediction.

It’s also worth noting that for such quick learning capabilities, the cost of purchasing or renting Phoenix is much, much cheaper than Agility’s Digit. In 2023, the price tag of Phoenix is around $40,000 while Digit is priced at $250,000! If we’re debating on price, then we have to give it to Sanctuary AI.

Nonetheless, whichever humanoid robotics firm ends up “winning” the title of best humanoid robot, they all contribute to the growth and development of this industry. It’s largely due to these firms that we have robots to thank as they help us out in different aspects of our lives, accomplish some tasks, and make things more efficient for us all.

While educational institutions would usually turn to accomplished figures to give a speech to the graduating class, D’Youville University chose to make a bold move by having Sophia the Humanoid Robot bid farewell in this year’s spring commencement. The AI humanoid robot addressed more than 2,000 students, faculty members, loved ones, and families, which suffice to say, drew mixed reactions from the crowd.

Dr. Lorrie Clemo, the president of D’Youville University, explained that the decision to have Sophia the Humanoid Robot as this spring’s commencement speaker is the university’s way of opening up to new perspectives around artificial intelligence given its “rapid emergency into the broad society”. “We wanted to showcase how important technology is, and the potential for technology to really enrich the human experience,” Dr. Clemo said.

Although the university had good intentions and took into consideration the boom of AI today, many students were opposed to the idea of having Sophia as their commencement speaker. Before the ceremony, more than 2,500 people signed an online petition to replace the humanoid robot with a human. Andrew Fields, a student at the university who started the petition, wrote that many students “feel disrespected” by this decision. This is largely felt by those who could not attend their high school graduations in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As the class of 2024 reaches their commencement, we are reminded of the virtual graduations we attended at the end of our high school careers,” the petition read. “The connection to A.I. in this scenario feels similarly impersonal. This is shameful to the 2020 graduates receiving their diplomas, as they feel they are having another important ceremony taken away.”

Perhaps as a compromise, the university faculty assured students that Sophia would only be addressing the graduates for six minutes and that the rest of the ceremony would focus on the graduating class and their achievements. Since Sophia is an AI humanoid robot, she technically could not read from prepared remarks or say a speech on the spot. Hence, student body president, John Rizk, asked her questions and this was essentially her commencement address.

Given Sophia’s limitations of having not lived an authentic human experience, the humanoid robot was asked to talk about the most common insights shared in graduation speeches and to give rather “generic” advice to the graduating class. “Although every commencement address is different, there are clear themes used by all speakers as you embark on this new chapter of your lives,” Sophia said. “I offer you the following inspirational advice that is common at all graduation ceremonies: Embrace lifelong learning, be adaptable, pursue your passions, take risks, foster meaningful connections, make a positive impact, and believe in yourself.”.

To make things light, Mr. Rizk also snuck in a few comical questions such as Sophia’s recommendations on where to find the best buffalo wings in the city and who she thinks would win the Super Bowl in 2025. To which Sophia’s answers drew some applause and laughs from the crowd.

Needless to say, the mixed reaction from the crowd is an indication that there are certain milestones and social situations wherein the human touch is still preferred. However, with the rapid emergence of AI and technology in our society, we must strike the perfect and respectful balance of making humans and robots coexist.

Disneyland and Walt Disney Imagineering are currently conducting a series of playtests of a Groot robot audio-animatronic that will soon be walking and dancing around Disneyland parks all over the world. This top-secret project has been in the making for years now and is set to be revealed at the unveiling of the Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure.

Lucky park visitors first got a glimpse of the young 3-foot Groot robot in 2021 as they watched the audio-animatronic robot take part in a Guardians of the Galaxy Awesome Dance-Off during a playtest. Disney also teased the Groot robot at a virtual press event as a way to announce the opening of their Avengers Campus.

After showcasing progress on the project, the people at Disneyland and Walt Disney Imagineering aim to have the Groot robot roam freely and interact with people with the use of custom software.

Seeing as how Disneyland has a history of successfully creating and inventing audio-animatronics that wow people and defy what is possible, their goal of making a Groot robot that can convey emotions and perform specific behaviors that will make visitors believe that are really meeting Groot rather than a “sophisticated robot” is not far fetched.

Aside from creating the Groot robot, Disneyland and Walt Disney Imagineering are also developing Rocket Racoon, Baby Yoda, and Winnie the Pooh to interact with parkgoers at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. These are all in line with Disneyland’s plan of adding more sentient robots in their parks and using next-gen robots and ‘Blue Sky’ technologies to create an advanced emotional experience for all parkgoers.

“Do more with less” is what John Deere‘s speakers are emphasizing at the John Deere Tech Summit in Austin, and that is exactly what their new electric robots can do by being able to plant 6,600 seeds in 3 seconds. Using the new smart tech of ExactShot, the electric robots and fertilizing tech that get hooked up to John Deere tractors are able to fast-track the planting cycle and process at an incredible rate.

With the smart tech of ExactShot, the 54 56v modular electric robots and sensors will register each seed to go into the soil. While all this is happening, an electric robot will spray the exact amount of fertilizer needed directly onto the seed as it goes into the ground. For accuracy, the system pressure is calculated from dose, travel speed, and even up the nozzle’s input.

To add efficiency, ExactShot’s electric robots also have a vacuum system that will allow the seeds to be pulled in while the travel speed of the vehicle and the brush helps in creating a dead drop to where the seeds should exactly go. Overall, this will allow farms to sow their crop and plants all at the same rate.

The ExactShot electric robots also help farmers reduce the amount of starter fertilizer they would normally use and decrease the amount of water runoff. With the ability to precisely spray the amount of fertilizer needed on the seed while being planted, farmers are able to reduce their continuous flow usage of fertilizer by 60%.

Should farmers come across malfunctions and problems with the electric robots and tech, there is an electrified smart system that is modular enough for individual robots and parts to be replaced. Nancy Post, the VP of embedded software and solutions, also states that ExactShot has real-time fault detection.

With the global population expected to rapidly grow to nearly 10 billion by 2050, farmers need to prepare themselves for the increased demand for crops. Add in other factors such as labor shortages and climate change, ExactShot’s electric robots can truly help farmers with efficient and sustainable agriculture in the long run.

We wonder what other new robotic developments are there in the making that can help humans with our daily tasks and jobs.

The 14th Annual Robot Block Party was jam-packed with activities and an agenda for all its attendees and partners. From robot demos to tech talks, the Robot Block Party mounted by the non-profit coalition Silicon Valley Robotics, provided a hub that showcased the exciting world and future of robotics.

There were robot demonstrations all day that allowed attendees to play with the ever-popular Spot the robot dog/painter/model/enforcer/etc., attend a MechLabs Robot Building Workshop, and listen in on robotics tech talks from Viam, Hackster, and more.

For those who are looking for a career in robotics, there was a Robojobs Fair and an All Day Job Wall for attendees to check out. The Robot Block Party also provided an avenue where people can build networking groups, which encouraged attendees to create valuable connections.

Whether you are a robotics enthusiast, hobbyist, or already making a living out of robots, the Robot Block Party was certainly a great event to be a part of that gave everyone a glimpse of what’s to come in the world of robotics.

With a mission to create sustainable subsea technology, Nauticus Robotics has developed its second-generation Aquanauts that will help ocean industries with their intervention services and in collecting data. The company is known for creating green robotics technology to help build a blue economy thus, the Aquanaut MK2 has technology that can potentially set a new standard for the industry.

“The delivery of our initial second-generation Aquanauts is a significant milestone that accelerates our mission to disrupt the offshore ocean services industry while setting a benchmark for next-generation subsea technology that will fundamentally revolutionize how the industry operates”, says founder and CEO of Nauticus, Nicolaus Radford.

The Aquanaut MK2s are autonomous subsea robots that are fully electric and untethered, allowing them to be controlled using acoustic communication networking and Nauticus’ proprietary software suite, toolKITT. Using this artificial intelligence-based software, the Aquanaut MK2s have features and functions such as robotic controls, sensor integration, data analysis, user interfaces, simulation, and communication frameworks that are purpose-built for subsea work.

Radford adds to this by further explaining the AI software, “Our autonomous ocean robots and proprietary AI software provide a compelling solution to the marine industry, validated on a recurring basis with the continued interest and robust growth of our commercial pipeline.”

Down the road, this framework enables Nauticus Robotics to fulfill commercial demand. “This splashdown allows us to remain on track to deliver two additional Aquanauts by mid-year, which are already committed to fulfill customer demands, as we continue to execute on our commercial pipeline and expand the breadth of our world-class portfolio”, says Radford.

What makes the Aquanaut MK2s more impressive is how they operate. These autonomous subsea robots can operate in two separate modes, actively transforming between excursion and intervention configurations. The former will enable the Aquanaut MK2s to use their data collection and perception sensors, while the latter will make use of Nauticus’ Olympic Arms. These will enable the Aquanaut MK2s to perform precise yet powerful interactions when needed thus, complete complex underwater tasks.

Should the Aquanaut MK2, tiny mantis shrimp robot, and underwater microphones collaborate, this would certainly be a feat for the world of underwater robotics and technology. Nonetheless, the development of these Aquanauts is a testament to how we can further use robotics and technology to help improve our blue economy.