Humanoid Robots Expand Roles in Homes and Consumer Markets

Recent developments in humanoid robotics have brought a variety of new robots designed for domestic use and personal assistance, with several models showcased at major technology events and in consumer markets.

At CES 2026, SwitchBot presented the Onero H1, a humanoid household robot capable of tasks such as preparing coffee, cooking, cleaning windows, and managing laundry. Hyundai and Boston Dynamics also demonstrated the Atlas robot at the same event, showing its ability to walk and wave under remote control, with plans for industrial deployment in car assembly by 2028.

IEEE Spectrum identified several AI-powered humanoid robots—including Neo from 1X Technologies, Apollo from Apptronik, Figure 02 from Figure AI, Phoenix from Sanctuary AI, Optimus from Tesla, and Atlas from Boston Dynamics—as advancing the development of household robot assistants. These robots are being designed to perform a range of domestic chores, such as cleaning, organizing, and providing companionship.

In mid-2025, a Neo humanoid robot was observed watering plants at 1X’s Palo Alto headquarters and is undergoing trials in residential settings, including the home of CEO Bernt Børnich. At CES 2025, Realbotix’s Aria android was introduced as a companion robot using context-aware AI to interact with users over time.

What the numbers show

• SwitchBot’s Onero H1 was unveiled at CES 2026
• The Beijing Robot Mall offered over 100 robot models in August 2025
• Unitree’s G1 humanoid stands about 130 cm tall
• Atlas is planned for car assembly deployment by 2028

At the Beijing Robot Mall, which opened in August 2025, more than 100 types of humanoid and consumer-oriented robots were available for purchase, with prices ranging from approximately US $278 to several million yuan. Unitree’s G1 humanoid, which is about 130 cm in height and positioned as a more affordable option, was demonstrated performing coordinated movements and dance routines at Hannover Messe 2025.

According to an IEEE Spectrum survey, individuals generally favor special-purpose robots for home use over humanoid designs, citing perceptions of increased safety, privacy, and comfort. Despite these preferences, the market continues to see the introduction of humanoid robots intended for various household roles.

Engineers working on domestic humanoid robots have stated that these machines must be compatible with human environments, including the ability to navigate stairs and open doors, as well as being perceived as trustworthy by users. This focus on physical and social compatibility is shaping the design and deployment of new models for residential settings.

As more companies introduce advanced humanoid robots for both companionship and practical tasks, the range of available options in consumer markets is expanding. The ongoing development and demonstration of these robots at international events and retail locations reflect the increasing interest in integrating robotics into everyday life.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.