Breaking: $20,000 Robot Butler is Here – 1X Robotics’ Neo Promises a Chore-Free Future
Palo Alto, CA – October 29, 2023 – Forget robotic vacuum cleaners; the future of home help is here, and it walks on two legs. 1X Robotics, a Norwegian-American company, has officially opened pre-orders for “Neo,” a humanoid robot designed to take on everyday household tasks, starting with the universally dreaded chore: laundry. This isn’t a distant dream; 1X aims to deliver the first Neos in 2026, though you’ll need deep pockets – or a commitment to a $499 monthly subscription – to welcome this robotic helper into your home.
From Prototype to Pre-Order: The Evolution of Neo
The Neo robot, previously known as “Neo Gamma,” represents a significant leap forward in consumer robotics. Unveiled in March at the Nvidia GTC 2025, the initial prototype showcased impressive capabilities. Now, 1X is taking reservations for the final model, with deliveries slated to begin in the US in 2026, followed by global expansion in 2027. The company’s approach is unique: while many robotics firms focus on industrial applications, 1X is deliberately targeting the complexities of the home environment.
Power and Intelligence: What Can Neo Actually Do?
Don’t let the humanoid form fool you; Neo is built for work. Weighing in at 30 kg, it can lift objects weighing up to 68 kg. And it’s surprisingly quiet, operating at just 22 decibels – quieter than your refrigerator. But the real magic lies in its “Tendon Drive” system, designed for smooth and safe movements, and its integrated Large Language Model (LLM). This LLM allows Neo to understand voice commands, recognize objects, and learn new skills. Through the “Chores app,” users can assign tasks, and for activities Neo hasn’t mastered, owners can even book a “1X Expert” for remote guidance and training. Think of it as robotic tutoring.
The Data Question: Robots in the Home and Privacy Concerns
1X’s focus on home use sets it apart from competitors like Figure (working with BMW) and UBtech (partnered with Nio), who are primarily testing robots in factories. However, this approach also raises important questions about data privacy. With microphones and sensors constantly active, what information is Neo collecting about your home life? 1X assures customers they will have control over when 1X employees can access Neo’s visual and audio data, but the potential for data collection remains a valid concern. This echoes the debates surrounding smart home devices and the balance between convenience and privacy.
Beyond Folding Laundry: The Future of Humanoid Home Robots
The development of Neo isn’t just about automating chores; it’s about pushing the boundaries of AI and robotics. As Alexander Mühlens, head of Automation Technology and Robotics at Igus, points out, “Risk assessment remains the biggest hurdle for the use of humanoid robots.” While industrial robots operate in controlled environments, the home is unpredictable. Simple tasks like handling a knife in the kitchen present significant safety challenges. 1X’s strategy of deploying Neo in real-world homes is designed to gather the data needed to address these challenges and refine its AI models. This “test before invest” approach is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective integration of robots into our daily lives.
The arrival of Neo signals a pivotal moment in the evolution of home technology. It’s a bold step towards a future where robots aren’t just tools, but integrated members of the household, learning and adapting to our needs. While the $20,000 price tag (or $499/month subscription) places Neo firmly in the luxury category for now, the technology it represents could pave the way for more affordable and accessible home robots in the years to come. The journey to a truly automated home is still underway, but 1X Robotics is undeniably leading the charge.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on robotics, AI, and the future of technology. Explore our Technology section for in-depth analysis and breaking news.
