By asahifile NEO: A $20,000 Home Robot that Learns Chores via Teleoperation
The humanoid robot is set to start shipping next year.
California-based AI and robotics company 1X is now accepting pre-orders for its humanoid robot, NEO, which is designed to automate daily chores and offer personalized assistance. Users can control NEO to carry out tasks around the house with just a click or a verbal command. When it begins shipping next year, NEO will have the capacity to perform basic tasks autonomously, such as opening doors, fetching items, and managing lighting. However, for more specific or complex tasks, users will need to accept that a human teleoperator will remotely control the robot and have access to their homes through the robot’s camera.
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, CEO Bernt Børnich explained that the AI neural network powering NEO requires real-world learning experiences. Customers who pre-order NEO for next year’s delivery must agree to allow a human operator to see inside their homes via the robot’s camera, which is essential for gathering training data to enhance autonomous capabilities. Børnich noted that the initial operations will primarily rely on teleoperators. Owners can schedule when the teleoperator takes over NEO and specify the tasks to be performed through an app.
Børnich emphasized that the company respects user privacy by allowing owners to control access. For instance, the robot can blur individuals’ identities from the teleoperator’s view, and there are options to define no-go zones within the house. Teleoperators cannot assume control without the owner’s consent. Despite NEO’s advanced design, Børnich reassured potential users that the robot includes multiple security layers to mitigate risks.
NEO is offered in tan, gray, and dark brown colors and can be pre-ordered for a $200 deposit. The price is set at $20,000 for early access, with an alternative subscription service priced at $499 per month.
Key Details:
- Product: NEO (humanoid robot by 1X Technologies)
- Purpose: Automate household chores and provide personalized assistance
- Shipping Start Date: Next year
- Autonomous Tasks Include: Opening doors, fetching items, controlling lights
- Control Method: Via app for user-specified tasks with remote teleoperator access
- Price: $20,000 to pre-order (with a $200 deposit), also available via a subscription for $499/month
- Privacy Features: Blurring of individuals, no-go zones, owner control over teleoperator access
Conclusion
The introduction of NEO represents a significant step forward in home robotics, combining AI technology with teleoperation to facilitate everyday responsibilities while prioritizing user privacy and security. As the product readies for launch, it sets the stage for future innovations in the realm of intelligent home assistance.