Norwegian robotics firm 1X has begun pre-selling its humanoid robot, NEO, aiming to bring advanced artificial intelligence-powered assistance and automation to consumer households for a premium price.
The company announced the launch of NEO on October 28, 2025, from its Palo Alto, California, headquarters, positioning the robot as a practical product rather than a laboratory prototype. NEO is designed to perform household chores, offer conversational support, and learn new tasks over time.
Customers can pre-order NEO through two options: an early access purchase for $20,000, which guarantees prioritized delivery in 2026, or a monthly subscription of $499. Initial shipments are slated for the United States in 2026, with global expansion planned to begin in 2027.
Bernt Børnich, CEO and founder of 1X, emphasized the shift from science fiction to tangible products. He stated that NEO allows users to “ask a humanoid robot for help with real results.”
The robot features a “Chores” mode, enabling owners to assign task lists and schedule their execution through voice commands or a single click. NEO can perform actions such as folding laundry, organizing shelves, and tidying spaces.
For tasks beyond its pre-trained abilities, 1X offers an “Expert 1X” guidance option, where a human expert can remotely guide the robot, allowing it to learn during execution. The company states NEO will arrive with basic skills already developed and expand its capabilities through software updates and in-home learning.
NEO integrates a large language model for conversational support, alongside Audio Intelligence to filter commands, Visual Intelligence to understand context, and a Memory function for continuous conversation. These features enable the robot to remember preferences, schedule appointments, set reminders, and maintain shopping lists.
The Visual Intelligence allows NEO to recognize objects, such as ingredients on a countertop, and suggest relevant actions or recipes. 1X states its Audio Intelligence ensures NEO only responds when directly addressed, aiming to prevent inappropriate replies.
However, the company’s public announcement did not provide detailed data retention policies or specific privacy controls. This lack of technical detail may prompt further scrutiny for users concerned about data privacy.
Physically, NEO weighs 66 pounds (29.94 kg) and can lift 154 pounds (69.85 kg), with a carrying capacity of 55 pounds (24.95 kg). It operates at a low noise level of 22 dB, which 1X compares to being quieter than a modern refrigerator.
The robot incorporates 22 degrees of freedom in its hands, offering human-level dexterity. Its core mechanical system is 1X’s patented Tendon Drive, utilizing high-density torque motors.
NEO’s body is constructed from 3D-printed polymer structures and includes WiFi, Bluetooth, and 5G connectivity. The design prioritizes safety, human compatibility, and an aesthetic that blends into domestic environments, using neutral tones and a knit-attire appearance. Available colors are Sand, Gray, and Dark Brown.