1X launched a factory for producing soft humanoid robots Neo and plans to release 10,000 models in the first year.

1X Technologies opens a new factory and plans mass production of humanoid robots

Norwegian robotics startup 1X Technologies, backed by OpenAI, recently completed construction of a new manufacturing facility covering about 5,400 m² in Hawthorne (California). The company’s goal is to become one of the first players to launch large-scale production of assistant robots for the consumer market.

Key figures and timelines
Metric | Value
Factory area | ~5,400 m²
Expected output in the first year | 10,000 robots
Forecast by end of 2027 | 100,000 units
First shipment deadline | By the end of this year

The company is currently finishing construction of an even larger site in San Carlos (California). The move from Norway to Palo Alto last summer and subsequent relocation to San Carlos are driven by growing demand: the current facilities proved too small.

Product Neo
Preorders for the Neo humanoid are available at $20,000. Its features include:

- Soft covering that provides a pleasant tactile contact with humans.
- Ability to perform household tasks: folding laundry, cleaning.
- Speech capability and gradual acquisition of new skills.
- Potential future role as an assistant for elderly people.

Financing
1X raised $123.5 million in investment. Among the investors is EQT Ventures, which plans to deploy 10,000 robots across its portfolio companies.

Competitive landscape
In the U.S., major robotics players include Tesla, Figure AI, Agility, and Apptronik, but the global leader remains China. 1X stands out by fully vertically integrating production—from copper windings to motors, electronics, and batteries—accelerating development cycles, enabling real-time data analysis, and speeding innovation deployment.

Technological approach
- Neo heads for the assembly line differ from public models: they feature an extended field of view eye socket, enhanced lenses, and a soft head structure capable of withstanding compression.
- The built-in camera module and proprietary electronics are processed by an Nvidia Thor chip.
- After final assembly, parts are attached to the spine, followed by a “morning stretch”—a quality check for construction integrity and mobility (an analog of yoga).
- The robot is finished with a soft fabric wrap that creates a pleasant contact sensation with humans.
- It ships in a large white protective case resembling an Apple AirPods pouch but sized like a person.

Prospects
The critical mass of humanoid robots could be reached within two years. At that point, the number of robots on production would exceed the human workforce. While Neo is not yet involved in producing other models, it may become possible in the long term.

Thus, 1X Technologies aims to rapidly bring mass production of humanoids to market by combining vertical integration and innovative technology, positioning itself as a leading robotics player in the U.S. and beyond.