Humanoid Robots May Finally Be Ready for Homes

Humanoid robots have long been impressive on exhibition floors, but too large, expensive, or specialized for everyday homes. However, PrimeBOT's latest machines, the Q1 and T1, suggest a shift in consumer robotics. At IFA 2026 in Berlin, Will Chu tested these robots and found them to be smaller, more portable, and designed for companionship in everyday life.

The Q1, smaller than typical humanoid robots, is about 88cm tall and can be easily carried. Its size allows it to walk, move its arms, and interact physically, making it less imposing in a home setting. It can speak nine languages, answer basic questions, and provide advice for children's scenarios. The robot is also an open platform for developers, educators, and robotics enthusiasts to modify its behavior for embodied AI experimentation.

On the other hand, the T1 can transform between a humanoid shape and a four-legged form, allowing it to navigate various indoor and outdoor environments. It can follow a person, hold a camera, and carry small items, making it closer to a mobile companion. This adaptability could make it useful for educational purposes and in homes.

While these robots are not yet ready for mass production, they demonstrate the potential of personal robots. Combining various functions into one device that can physically move through the same environment as its owner could change how we interact with technology in our homes. However, more information is needed about pricing, battery life, reliability, and availability before we can fully embrace these machines as part of our daily lives.