1X, a company with a presence in the United States and Norway, has taken a significant step in the field of robotics by unveiling NEO Beta, a humanoid robot designed to assist with household tasks. This prototype, representing the latest evolution in robotics and artificial intelligence, has already begun to be tested in homes, marking an important advancement in the integration of robots into everyday life.
A Household Assistant for the Future
NEO Beta is an autonomous bipedal robot that promises to revolutionize the way we perform household chores. Unlike other similar projects, 1X has moved beyond the conceptual phase and is ready to test its creation in real environments. NEO is designed to perform a variety of household tasks, from cleaning to organizing objects and running errands. Standing 164 cm tall and weighing 29 kg, this robot can lift up to 19 kg, thanks to its advanced hydraulic system that allows it to handle objects with either delicacy or strength as needed.
Additionally, NEO Beta is equipped with multiple sensors that, combined with its AI system, enable it to learn from the tasks it is shown. This built-in learning is initially guided by a teleoperator who demonstrates to the robot how to perform certain actions, which it can later execute autonomously. However, the teleoperator can take control at any time if necessary, adding an extra layer of safety during its operation.
Real-World Testing and Mass Production
The deployment of NEO Beta in homes aims to evaluate its performance in everyday scenarios before moving to large-scale production. According to 1X, the robot’s design is intended for eventual mass production, which would allow it to meet global demand if the product gains traction in the market.
Despite the promising advancements, many questions remain about the future of NEO Beta. The price of these units and their full capabilities have not been disclosed. In a demonstration video, NEO Beta is shown performing simple tasks such as reaching for a backpack, but it remains to be seen how it will handle more complex situations. Meanwhile, other companies like Figure have already showcased robots capable of interacting in natural language and performing tasks in factories.
