California-based AI and robotics company 1X has announced that it is now accepting pre-orders for its humanoid robot, NEO. The robot is designed to automate daily chores and provide personalized assistance. Users will be able to control NEO and have it perform tasks around the house using a button or voice command. When it starts shipping next year, NEO will be able to perform basic tasks autonomously, including opening doors, fetching items, and turning lights on or off. However, for more complex tasks, early adopters will need to be comfortable with the idea of a human teleoperator controlling the robot remotely and accessing their home through the robot’s camera.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal’s Joanna Stern, 1X CEO Bernt Børnich explained that the AI neural network powering the machine requires more real-world experience to learn and improve. Børnich stated that customers who pre-order NEO for delivery next year must agree to allow a human operator to access their home through the robot’s camera, which is necessary for gathering training data and teaching the machine to perform tasks autonomously. “If we don’t have your data, we can’t make the product better,” he said.

Børnich acknowledged that much of the initial work will be done by teleoperators. Owners will have access to an app that allows them to schedule when the teleoperator can take control of NEO and specify the tasks they want the machine to perform. He emphasized that 1X is committed to respecting users’ privacy, allowing them to blur people from the camera’s view, designate no-go zones in their homes, and require owner approval before teleoperators can take control of NEO. While there is a potential risk of security breaches, Børnich assured that NEO has multiple layers of security to prevent accidents and ensure safety.

The 1X NEO is available in three color options: tan, gray, and dark brown. It can be pre-ordered from the company’s website with a deposit of $200. Those who want early access to the robot can purchase it for $20,000, or opt for a monthly subscription service of $499.