1X, a Norwegian-American robotics company, has introduced its soft, helpful robot companion, Neo, featuring hands with 25 degrees of freedom. This level of movement is just slightly less than the 27 degrees of freedom typically found in human hands. The hands are equipped with actuators designed to mimic the motion of human tendons, allowing for a dexterous range of motion. Cameras and AI help the robot understand the broader context of what its fingers are trying to grasp, enabling it to handle odd shapes and detect when objects are slipping from its grip. The fingers can also move extremely quickly and hyperextend in directions human digits cannot. The hands have an IP68 waterproof rating, meaning the robot can wash its own hands. Source: wired
The design of Neo’s hands aims to align with human capabilities, enabling tasks like opening doors, lifting heavy objects, and even plugging itself in when its battery is low. Jonathan Terfurth, 1X’s director of actuators and hands, emphasized the importance of creating a robot that is safe and compliant for human interaction. 'Range of motion can be a bit extreme, but we try to be very close to what humans can do so that we can live in the world,' Terfurth said. The company is positioning Neo as part of a growing trend in robotics, where machines transition from clumsy claw-like designs to capable, helpful assistants for daily tasks. Source: wired
The Neo robot is part of a market dominated by rugged, hulking robots designed for defense contracts, but 1X is taking a different approach. The robot is soft and supple, inspired by characters like Baymax from Disney’s Big Hero 6. Early access pricing for the robot is $20,000 or $500 per month, with delivery prioritized for 2026. The design aims to create a peaceful, fun, and safe presence in a home, blending into daily life rather than feeling like something from a different universe. Source: wired
