Humanoid Robots Now Made in California, Coming to Homes in 2026

The future of home robotics just moved from science fiction to assembly line in Hayward, California.

1X Technologies launched full-scale production of NEO, a humanoid robot designed to help around the house while operating quieter than your refrigerator. The 58,000 square foot facility represents something remarkable: America manufacturing the robots that could transform daily life.

Unlike traditional factories that piece together parts from around the world, 1X built something different. The company makes nearly everything in-house, from spinning copper coils into custom motors to stress-testing hardware through more than 20 million cycles. Raw materials enter one end of the factory, and complete robots walk out the other.

"We're not dreaming about abundance; we're manufacturing it," said Bernt Børnich, founder and CEO of 1X. "More production means more robots, and more robots mean the fastest path to physical AI."

NEO stands out for its thoughtful design. The robot moves on tendon-driven actuators and cushioned limbs that help it navigate homes safely. It even wears machine-washable nylon suits in tan, gray, or dark brown, making it feel less like a machine and more like a helpful presence.

The factory itself shows the technology in action. Early NEO units already work the floor, stocking parts and handling logistics. Every task they complete feeds data back into the NEO Cortex brain, powered by NVIDIA's Jetson Thor platform, making each generation smarter and more capable.

The demand proved immediate and overwhelming. When 1X opened orders last October, the entire first year's production sold out within five days. Right now, those units support research, development, and home testing programs with real families.

The Ripple Effect

This factory represents more than one company's success. It signals American leadership in robotics manufacturing and brings high-tech production jobs to California. As NEO units learn and improve on the factory floor, they're gathering real-world experience that will make them better helpers when they reach consumers.

The technology also promises to help people who need extra support at home, whether due to age, disability, or simply the demands of modern life. Safe, quiet robots that can assist with daily tasks could give millions of people more independence and peace of mind.

Public shipments begin in 2026, putting helpful humanoid robots within reach for American families ready to welcome them home.