The 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas unveiled a new robot from Hyundai, a brand recognized for its vehicles. This occasion signified the inaugural public unveiling of Atlas, a humanoid robot featuring a flashlight face and a muscular build, capable of lifting 110 pounds. Atlas was born out of Hyundai’s 2020 acquisition of Boston Dynamics, a firm recognized for its dystopian robots. Although its capabilities are remarkable, Atlas appeared to encapsulate the apprehensions surrounding robots usurping jobs.
Nonetheless, history indicates that numerous CES robot prototypes struggle to make a significant impact. Experienced CES journalists have observed countless humanoid and animal-like robots throughout the years that never gained popularity. A retrospective examination of CES history uncovers several noteworthy instances.
In 2004, Sony launched the Qrio robot, which featured in a television finale but never became commercially available. In 2006, Google co-founder Larry Page presented an early self-driving “robot” car prototype, now referred to as Waymo, which operates in five U.S. cities. In 2007, Honda’s Asimo humanoid robot showcased impressive walking and running skills but faced challenges with stair navigation, resulting in its discontinuation in 2018.
Other CES robots included Anybots’ telepresence robot in 2009, Vstone’s Robovie line in 2011, and TOSY Robotics’ mRobo Ultra Bass in 2012. The Pleo RB robotic dinosaur made a fleeting return in 2014, while Medi, a healthcare robot, sought to assist ill children. Toshiba’s Aiko Chihira, a communication android, exhibited sign language in 2015.
In 2016, Intel CEO Brian Krzanich rode a Segway personal transportation robot during his CES keynote. Nvidia’s Jensen Huang discussed robotic vehicles with Audi in 2017, while Taiwan’s ITRI showcased a chess-playing robot. Sony’s Aibo robot dog made its comeback in 2018, and a robot stripper entertained at a club during CES.
In 2018, Aeolus Robotics revealed a robot capable of operating a vacuum cleaner, while ANYbotics and Continental’s ANYmal robot transitioned to a role as a factory inspector. Agility Robotics’ Digit, the first commercially deployed humanoid robot, teamed up with Amazon in 2020. Promobot’s Robo-C, resembling a human, and Charmin’s Rollbot concept were also presented in 2020.
In 2022, the Amagami Ham Ham playful biting cat and Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot were key features. The Ameca humanoid robot, equipped with AI gestures and facial expressions, made an appearance. Adam the bartender, a productivity bot, returned to CES in 2023, while EMage group’s TOMO robot played the keyboard in 2025.
At CES 2026, Nvidia’s Jensen Huang showcased a robotics-driven future alongside Disney Research’s Grek, a robot lacking a film contract or employment. Despite the anticipation, many CES robots continue to be prototypes, failing to gain widespread acceptance. For the latest updates on CES 2026, visit Mashable’s CES hub.