Norwegian robotics firm 1X Technologies is set to initiate in-home trials of its humanoid robot, Neo Gamma, deploying the units in several hundred residences by the end of 2025.
Bernt Børnich, CEO of 1X, emphasized the significance of these trials in advancing household robotics, stating, “This is a pivotal step towards integrating humanoid robots into daily life, allowing us to understand and enhance their interactions within real-world environments.”
Neo Gamma, the successor to 1X’s earlier model, Neo Beta, is designed to perform various household tasks, including making coffee, doing laundry, and vacuuming. The initial phase of the trial will involve human teleoperators remotely controlling the robots to collect data and refine their artificial intelligence systems.
In contrast, Chinese robotics company Unitree Robotics adopts a more cautious approach. Founded in 2016 and initially known for its quadruped robotic dogs, Unitree ventured into humanoid robotics by 2023. The company forecasts significant advancements in humanoid robot capabilities by 2026, anticipating clearer commercial applications within three to five years.
A Goldman Sachs report highlights current limitations in Unitree’s robots, noting their inability to perform precise tasks such as screwing and welding. The report suggests that widespread deployment in factories and homes may take up to five years.
The broader robotics industry reflects a spectrum of perspectives on the timeline for domestic humanoid robot integration. Kyle Vogt, former CEO of Cruise, has secured $150 million in funding for his startup, The Bot Company, which aims to develop AI-powered robots for household tasks. Despite lacking a market-ready product, the company’s valuation has reached $2 billion, indicating strong investor confidence in the sector’s potential.
Elon Musk’s Tesla is also making strides with its humanoid robot, Optimus. Demonstrations have showcased the robot’s ability to serve drinks, dance, and interact with guests. Musk suggests that Optimus could be available by the end of 2025, with an estimated price between $20,000 and $30,000. However, experts predict a longer timeline for widespread household adoption, citing challenges related to autonomy, battery life, safety, and legal considerations.
