The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) often delivers more than just incremental tech upgrades. It’s a platform where companies push boundaries, sometimes resulting in devices that are as bizarre as they are ambitious. This year’s robotics showcase featured several standouts that blur the line between practical innovation and futuristic novelty. These machines highlight the evolving relationship between humans and automation, even if they’re not quite ready for mass adoption.
LG’s CLOiD: The Laundry-Folding Robot
LG’s CLOiD is a humanoid robot designed for household tasks, notably laundry folding. While not entirely outlandish in the context of home automation, the concept remains striking. The device, still in the prototype phase, boasts functional arms with five-digit hands and speech capabilities. Its potential utility hinges on real-world applicability; a robot capable of handling laundry could streamline chores, but its practicality depends on widespread adoption.
Sweekar: The AI Companion
Takway’s Sweekar is arguably the most unconventional device on display. It’s not a traditional robot designed for labor but rather an AI companion that evolves over time. Starting as an egg-like form, Sweekar gradually hatches and develops a personality through generative AI, requiring user interaction to “grow.” This concept positions Sweekar as a digital pet, appealing to emotional connection rather than functional efficiency.
Switchbot onero H1: The Mobile Assistant
Switchbot’s onero H1 is designed for in-home assistance but evokes a surprising resemblance to a football tackling dummy. Despite the odd aesthetic, the robot is equipped with arms for performing chores, offering practical utility. Its design may not be refined, but the concept demonstrates the increasing ambition of mobile home robots.
These devices raise questions about the future of robotics, particularly regarding the integration of machines into daily life. While some robots focus on tangible tasks like laundry folding, others prioritize companionship and emotional engagement. The trend suggests a shift from purely functional automation toward human-machine interaction, even if the technology is still evolving.
The CES 2026 robotics showcase is a reminder that innovation often comes with unexpected forms. Whether these robots will become household staples or remain curiosities remains to be seen. However, they offer a glimpse into the next generation of automation, where machines may not just perform tasks but also interact with us in increasingly human-like ways.
