1X, a Norwegian-American robotics company, has revealed technical details about the advanced hands fitted to its humanoid robot, Neo. The five-fingered hands use tendon-like actuators to mimic human movement, offering 25 degrees of freedom—slightly less than the 27 typically found in human hands. Built-in cameras and AI help the robot identify objects and adjust its grip, allowing it to handle irregular shapes and detect when items begin to slip. The fingers can move faster than human digits, hyperextend in ways human fingers cannot, and are rated IP68 for waterproofing, enabling the robot to wash its own hands.
Jonathan Terfurth, 1X's director of actuators and hands, said the design aims to function safely around people who have never interacted with robots before. He noted that while the range of motion may exceed human capability, the goal is to match human-scale actions so Neo can operate in everyday environments. The robot is designed to perform routine tasks like opening doors, lifting heavy objects, and plugging itself in when its battery runs low. Unlike industrial robots with rigid frames, Neo features a soft, flexible body covered in a 3D lattice shell, inspired by Baymax from the Disney film Big Hero 6.
The robot is positioned as a home companion capable of handling chores such as laundry, dishwashing, and trash disposal. Early access units are available for $20,000 upfront or $500 per month, with full delivery expected by 2026. The pricing model prioritizes delivery for those who pay the lump sum. This development reflects a shift in robotics from industrial or military applications toward more socially integrated machines. Neo's dexterity and autonomous functionality suggest growing progress in creating robots that can navigate unstructured home environments.
The robot's hands have more range than most human tasks require, yet it still cannot fold laundry faster than a person. A $20,000 price tag makes it a luxury toy, not a household helper. If Neo needs to plug itself in, it still depends on the same outlets Nigerians lose power from daily.
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