Boston Dynamics Unveils Production-Ready Atlas Robot at CES 2026

Initial Deployments for Atlas at Hyundai and Google DeepMind

Following extensive trials, including some dance performances, Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot, Atlas, is now entering the production phase. The initial recipients of this advanced robot will be Hyundai, the primary shareholder in Boston Dynamics, and Google DeepMind, its new partner in artificial intelligence.

The final iteration of Atlas is engineered to undertake a multitude of industrial functions. Built to ensure consistent and reliable performance, Atlas operates autonomously or can be guided by a remote operator using a tablet. This robust machine extends up to 7.5 feet, can handle weights up to 110 pounds, and works efficiently in temperatures between -4 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter stated, 'Atlas represents the pinnacle of our robotic endeavors and signifies a transformative leap in industrial operations, a dream we've harbored since childhood.'

Boston Dynamics has been showcasing its progress in humanoid robotics publicly since at least 2011, when Atlas was part of a DARPA initiative. Since its inception, Atlas has undergone several design transformations, notably transitioning from a hydraulic model to a fully electric version in 2024. That year, Boston Dynamics also revealed Atlas's capacity to assemble automotive components, likely one of its first practical applications.

Future Applications and Development Goals

Hyundai intends to integrate Atlas into its vehicle production facilities by 2028, primarily for sequencing parts. By 2030, the corporation aims to expand Atlas's duties to include assembling components, managing repetitive tasks, handling heavy lifting, and other intricate operations. Meanwhile, Google DeepMind plans to incorporate Atlas robots into their system to enhance its capabilities with their Gemini Robotics AI foundation models.