Humanoid robots stole CES 2026 as bots folded laundry cooked meals and even took Insta photos
Published on Jan 09, 2026 at 3:53 AM (UTC+4)
by Claire Reid
Last updated on Jan 09, 2026 at 9:13 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
This year’s Consumer Electronics Show – AKA CES – kicked off this week, and humanoid robots were out in force, doing everything from folding laundry to snapping selfies.
Humanoid robots were big news last year thanks to the likes of Tesla’s Optimus and Unitree’s G1.
And it seems the momentum is far from slowing down, with humanoid bots stealing the show at CES 2026.
Several companies showcased their latest robotic offerings, and they’re capable of doing some seriously impressive stuff.
DISCOVER SBX CARS – The global premium auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Humanoid robots made an impact at CES 2026
Once firmly stuck in the realms of science fiction, humanoid robots have come a long way.
This was excellently showcased during CES 2026, which was packed with humanoid bots carrying out a range of different tasks, and giving us all a glimpse at what the future might look like.
Singapore-based Sharpa used the event to unveil its first-ever full-body humanoid robot: North.
North has been built for ‘productivity-focused autonomy’ and has real-time ‘vision’ and language inputs.
The robot put on an impressive display, carrying out a bunch of tasks, including playing a bit of ping-pong, dealing a deck of cards, and taking some photos with an instant camera.
Meanwhile, tech-giant LG presented its ClOiD robot, which is basically like a robot butler and has been specially created to carry out ‘time-consuming tasks of daily housework’.
The AI-powered stands at around five feet tall and has two articulated arms that have the same mobility as a human arm.
This means the cute-looking ClOiD can carry out a full range of tasks around the house.
LG showcased it preparing breakfast, before washing and folding laundry – does anyone else really want one of these now?
The demonstrations and displays were mostly interactive, giving attendees the chance to get up close to the bots.
Robotics company Fourier invited members of the public to speak, touch, and play chess with its newly unveiled GR-3 bot.
The smart robot features smooth, fluid movements, meaning it can bust a move when the moment calls for it.
It’s also designed to interpret intent and is able to localize voices in a crowded room and respond in real-time, all while looking pretty adorable.
Are we actually close to having humanoid bots in our homes?
While the robots on display at CES 2026 can carry out a mind-blowing range of helpful tasks, it’s important to note that they are carried out in smartly controlled environments, which might not be indicative of real-world use.
In fact, robotics expert Ken Goldberg believes we’re still a long way away from truly capable humanoid robots.
The main issue, according to Goldberg, is dexterity and being able to manipulate objects.
“Things like being able to pick up a wine glass or change a light bulb,” Goldberg told UC Berkley News.
“No robot can do that.”
He said that although we have seen bots perform tasks that appear more complex, such as playing chess, it’s actually ‘extremely difficult’ for robots to replicate human-like dexterity.
So for now, it seems as though you might have to make do with pouring your own wine and changing your lightbulbs yourself.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Claire Reid is a journalist who hails from the UK but is now living in New Zealand. She began her career after graduating with a degree in Journalism from Liverpool John Moore’s University and has more than a decade of experience, writing for both local newspapers and national news sites. Claire covers a wide variety of topics, with a special focus on cars, technology, planes, cryptocurrency, and luxury.
