When will humanoid robots be ready for household chores? 1X Technologies AS has taken a significant step forward by unveiling the NEO Beta prototype, designed specifically for consumer use. This marks a shift from commercial settings to household applications, with pilot deployments planned for select homes later this year.
NEO Beta: A Consumer-Focused Design
Building on the success of its predecessor, the EVE robot, NEO Beta has been crafted from the ground up to serve in home environments. Lighter and softer than its competitors, NEO Beta weighs 25 kg (66 lb.) and is designed with safety as a top priority. The robot is clad in a cushioned jumpsuit, avoiding rigid materials that could cause harm in case of accidental collisions.
Safety and Pilot Deployments
Safety is a crucial concern as humanoid robots move from controlled environments to homes. 1X Technologies emphasizes this, ensuring NEO Beta is safe for consumers, children, and pets. “Our priority is safety,” said Bernt Børnich, CEO of 1X. A limited number of NEO units will be deployed in select homes for research and development purposes this year.
Funding and Future Prospects
1X Technologies raised $100 million in Series B funding in January, signalling strong investor confidence in the NEO Beta’s potential. While pricing details are not yet available, the market is keenly watching how NEO Beta will compare to competitors like Tesla’s Optimus and Unitree’s G1.
