Tesla Humanoid Robot Optimus Folds Laundry in New Video

Elon Musk posted the update on X, adding that Optimus is not yet able to complete the task autonomously

Scarlett Evans, Assistant Editor, IoT World Today

January 18, 2024

1 Min Read
Optimus robot folds laundry
Tesla

Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, has been shown with a new set of skills: folding laundry.

Elon Musk shared the update in a video published on X, formerly Twitter.

View post on Twitter

Musk wrote in a subsequent post that Optimus was not working autonomously, but was remotely operated to perform the task.

“Important note: Optimus cannot yet do this autonomously, but certainly will be able to do this fully autonomously and in an arbitrary environment (won’t require a fixed table with a box that has only one shirt),” he wrote.

As such the demonstration is more a showcase of Optimus’ dexterity and motor skills rather than its autonomous capabilities – meaning Optimus is still some years away from achieving autonomous operation. 

Since its launch in 2021, Tesla has been providing regular updates to its humanoid robot, particularly in improving its mobility and handling capabilities. 

Last September a video was released showing Optimus performing new balancing capabilities including performing yoga and moving autonomously through its environment. In December it was shown balancing, walking and dancing, as well as picking and placing delicate objects such as eggs.

About the Author

Scarlett Evans

Assistant Editor, IoT World Today

Scarlett Evans is the assistant editor for IoT World Today, with a particular focus on robotics and smart city technologies. Scarlett has previous experience in minerals and resources with Mine Australia, Mine Technology and Power Technology. She joined Informa in April 2022.

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