9 humanoid robots at CES 2026 that showed the future is already here

At CES 2026, humanoid robots made a significant leap from experimental prototypes to practical, deployable machines actively working in real-world settings. Unlike previous years where robots mainly performed scripted demos, this year’s models demonstrated functional capabilities across diverse sectors including industry, healthcare, and home environments. Key factors driving this shift included improved hardware, clear commercial intent, defined job roles, and scheduled production timelines, signaling that humanoid robots are transitioning into viable co-workers rather than futuristic concepts. Among the nine highlighted robots, Boston Dynamics’ Atlas stood out with its production-ready version debut, featuring advanced joint mobility, a 7.5-foot reach, and a 110-pound lifting capacity. Integrated with Google DeepMind’s Gemini Robotics AI, Atlas is designed for industrial deployment and will begin operations at Hyundai’s Metaplant in 2026. Unitree Robotics presented its G1, H2, and R1 humanoids, emphasizing agility and affordability, with a shift toward a Robot-as-a-Service business model