A groundbreaking development in the world of robotics has arrived with the launch of the Neo Humanoid Robot by the American-Norwegian robotics company, 1X Technologies. Priced at $20,000 (approximately Rs 17.63 lakh), Neo is designed to assist in everyday tasks around the home and provide personalized services as a versatile assistant. The robot is equipped with the ability to carry out household chores, entertain with dancing, and even assist with physical tasks like climbing stairs while carrying items. It represents the next big leap in humanoid robots, aiming to bridge the gap between machines and human-like interactions.

Neo’s Design and Features: A Perfect Blend of Functionality and Aesthetics

The Neo robot is built to resemble humans in both appearance and function. Weighing approximately 30 kg, it can carry up to 68 kg, making it capable of handling a variety of domestic tasks. Neo’s design includes a neutral-toned, soft-woven suit available in colors such as tan, grey, and dark brown. The robot is crafted to blend seamlessly into a household environment, avoiding the bulky, machine-like appearance common to traditional robots. According to 1X Technologies, the goal was to make Neo appear as a part of the home, not just another machine.

One of the standout features of Neo is its quiet operation. At just 22dB, it is quieter than a modern refrigerator, making it less intrusive while performing tasks. The robot’s hands are equipped with a patented tendon drive system, providing soft movement and ensuring safe interaction with humans. The soft polymer body further enhances its safety and ease of use in a domestic setting.

Connectivity and AI Capabilities

Neo is equipped with advanced connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5G, ensuring that it can seamlessly integrate into a smart home ecosystem. It also boasts a three-speaker setup, perfect for both entertainment and assistance purposes. Neo uses an in-built large language model (LLM) for AI-driven conversations, allowing it to interact naturally with users. The robot can understand when it is being addressed, and responds to commands only when called upon, making it an efficient and non-intrusive assistant.

In addition to voice commands, Neo employs visual intelligence to understand its surroundings. This capability enables it to identify items on kitchen counters or suggest recipes, enhancing its usefulness in daily household tasks.

Expert Mode: A Step Towards Autonomous Functionality

While Neo is designed to assist with a wide range of tasks, it also comes with an Expert Mode for more complex functions. If the robot encounters a task it cannot perform, users can call on 1X Technologies’ expert team to remotely control the robot and guide it through the process. The company assures that safety measures are in place, including strict control over what the operator can do and when.

Neo can perform tasks such as cleaning rooms, folding clothes, and organizing spaces without human assistance. Owners can assign tasks to the robot through voice commands or an app, and can also schedule and track its work. Over time, Neo is designed to learn the household habits, improving its efficiency and performance.

Memory and Continuous Learning Capabilities

One of the most innovative features of Neo is its memory system. The robot can remember grocery lists, birthdays, and past conversations, making it more personalized and attentive to the user’s needs. As the robot interacts with the environment, it continuously learns and adapts, improving its ability to serve its owners. With regular software updates, Neo is expected to gain new capabilities, making life even more convenient for its users.

At launch, Neo can perform basic tasks such as opening doors, fetching items, and turning off lights. Over time, the robot’s capabilities will expand, allowing it to take on even more complex tasks in the home.

Pricing and Availability

The Neo Humanoid Robot is available for pre-order at $20,000 (approximately Rs 17.63 lakh) for early access units. Alternatively, buyers can opt for a subscription plan priced at $499 per month (around Rs 44,000). A refundable deposit of $200 (approximately Rs 17,656) is required to secure a unit. Initially, deliveries are expected to begin in 2026 in the U.S., with global availability anticipated in 2027.

While Neo is touted as a highly advanced robot, the inclusion of Expert Mode suggests that it is not yet fully autonomous. As technology evolves, Neo’s ability to perform complex tasks without human intervention is expected to improve, bringing it closer to becoming a fully autonomous humanoid robot.

Future of Humanoid Robots: A Competitive Landscape

Neo is part of the growing trend of humanoid robots entering the market. The development of Neo comes at a time when major tech companies are investing heavily in humanoid robotics. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, is also working on its own humanoid robot called Optimus. Musk has expressed interest in creating a “robot army” with Optimus, which highlights the potential future applications of humanoid robots in both personal and industrial settings.

The rise of humanoid robots like Neo signals a shift toward greater integration of AI and robotics in daily life. As these robots become more advanced, they will likely revolutionize household tasks and provide new opportunities for automation and personal assistance.

The launch of the Neo humanoid robot by 1X Technologies marks a significant milestone in the development of household robots. With its ability to perform a variety of tasks, from cleaning and organizing to offering entertainment and companionship, Neo represents the future of domestic robotics. As the technology continues to evolve, Neo is expected to become more autonomous and capable, offering an even more seamless integration into daily life. As humanoid robots become increasingly advanced, they will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the way we live and interact with technology in our homes.