NEO: A Turning Point for Consumer Humanoid Robotics

At IGF, we keep an eye on innovative technologies that transform everyday living and working. A notable recent development is NEO. What’s that, you might ask? SO, NEO is an actual humanoid robot launched by American robotics firm 1X Technologies. Its cost is about $20,000, and the robot is about to be launched in mass production in 2026. The company marks a transition from experimental robotics to useful home support. Robots are about to be full-time home assistants.

Standing at 5’6’’ and weighing 66 pounds, NEO is all about smooth, human-like movement. Moreover, robots mimic the human musculoskeletal system, which in turn, is really looks very realistic and natural. Just imagine, robots have 75 degrees of freedom in their bodies and 22 in each hand! NEO can manage daily tasks such as opening doors, turning off lights, bringing objects, and helping maintain household routines.

Its perception is driven by an integration of stereo fisheye cameras beamforming microphones and 1X’s proprietary NEO Cortex platform developed on NVIDIA hardware. These elements enable comprehension and adaptive learning. Although NEO executes functions independently, the company incorporates a “human-in-the-loop” mechanism to guarantee safe management of more intricate operations.

The Competitive Landscape and What Sets NEO Apart

The humanoid robotics race includes major players like Tesla’s Optimus, Figure AI, and XPENG—yet most remain in prototype stages. NEO has become the first humanoid robot available for direct consumer purchase or through a $499/month subscription, putting 1X Technologies ahead as the category’s early mover.

In terms of functionality, NEO offers power and adaptability. It can lift to 154 pounds, transport items, ascend stairs, and perform different actions. Moreover, robots can sit, kneel, and stand back up after falls. The robot runs for four hours on a single charge and consumes less than a dollar’s worth of electricity daily. A 3-year warranty is a must for these robots, as well as top-tier support and protective apparel offered in colors.

Although adoption hinges on demonstrating safety, autonomy, and resolving privacy issues NEO’s launch signifies a turning point. For the first time ever a humanoid assistant moves beyond a mere idea—it becomes a product available to consumers.

At IGF, we see innovations like NEO as proof of what happens when bold founders receive the right backing. Our mission is to help startups move ideas from prototype to global impact, enabling technologies that redefine the future.