M1
Zeroth Robotics M1 is a compact home companion robot that Zeroth introduced with its US launch at CES 2026 and now promotes through a dedicated product page plus a reservation flow. Official materials position M1 as an 'embodied intelligence' robot for home companionship, gentle fall detection, mobile safety checks, daily assistance, kid-focused interactive learning, pet behavior monitoring, and remote family interaction. The robot combines a 20-DoF body with both bipedal and wheeled mobility, whole-home LiDAR mapping, iTOF depth sensing, vision-based recognition and obstacle avoidance, multilingual conversation, and an open platform for programming, VR, and reinforcement-learning experimentation.
$2,899
USDZeroth's official CES 2026 launch PR said US pre-orders would start at $2,899; as of 2026-04-05 the company is still collecting refundable reservation deposits rather than listing open retail sales.
Height
494mm (19.45 in)
Weight
Robot body 2.8kg (6.17 lbs) + mobility base 1.4kg (3.08 lbs)
Battery
~2 hours
Speed
0.05m/s (bipedal); 0.6m/s (wheeled)
Technical Specifications
Height
494mm (19.45 in)
Weight
Robot body 2.8kg (6.17 lbs) + mobility base 1.4kg (3.08 lbs)
Dimensions
195mm × 125mm × 494mm (7.7 × 4.9 × 19.5 in)
Battery Life
~2 hours
Charging Time
80% in 1 hour
Max Speed
0.05m/s (bipedal); 0.6m/s (wheeled)
Capabilities
10Ecosystem Compatibility
- Zeroth app ecosystem
- Open multi-language programming platform
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About the M1
The M1 is a Companions robot built by Zeroth Robotics. Zeroth Robotics M1 is a compact home companion robot that Zeroth introduced with its US launch at CES 2026 and now promotes through a dedicated product page plus a reservation flow. Official materials position M1 as an 'embodied intelligence' robot for home companionship, gentle fall detection, mobile safety checks, daily assistance, kid-focused interactive learning, pet behavior monitoring, and remote family interaction. The robot combines a 20-DoF body with both bipedal and wheeled mobility, whole-home LiDAR mapping, iTOF depth sensing, vision-based recognition and obstacle avoidance, multilingual conversation, and an open platform for programming, VR, and reinforcement-learning experimentation.
At a listed price of $2,899, it positions itself in the mid-range segment of the companions market. See all Zeroth Robotics robots on the Zeroth Robotics page.
Spec Breakdown
Detailed specifications for the M1
Height
494mm (19.45 in)At 494mm (19.45 in), the M1 is sized for its intended operating environment and use cases.
Weight
Robot body 2.8kg (6.17 lbs) + mobility base 1.4kg (3.08 lbs)Weighing Robot body 2.8kg (6.17 lbs) + mobility base 1.4kg (3.08 lbs), the M1 balances structural integrity with portability and maneuverability.
Dimensions
195mm × 125mm × 494mm (7.7 × 4.9 × 19.5 in)The overall dimensions of 195mm × 125mm × 494mm (7.7 × 4.9 × 19.5 in) define the robot's physical footprint and determine what spaces it can navigate and what clearances it requires for operation.
Battery Life
~2 hoursWith a battery life of ~2 hours, the M1 can operate for sustained periods before requiring a recharge. Battery life is measured under typical operating conditions and may vary based on workload intensity and environmental factors.
Charging Time
80% in 1 hourA charging time of 80% in 1 hour means the ratio of operation to downtime is an important consideration for applications requiring near-continuous availability. Some deployments use multiple robots in rotation to maintain uninterrupted service.
Maximum Speed
0.05m/s (bipedal); 0.6m/s (wheeled)A top speed of 0.05m/s (bipedal); 0.6m/s (wheeled) is calibrated for the robot's primary operating environment and safety requirements.
The M1 uses Embodied-intelligence platform with whole-home mapping, visual recognition and obstacle avoidance, posture/motion tracking, multilingual conversational interaction, and support for open programming, VR integration, and reinforcement-learning tools as its intelligence backbone. This AI platform powers the robot's decision-making, perception processing, and autonomous behavior. The sophistication of the AI stack directly impacts how well the robot handles unexpected situations and adapts to new environments.
M1 Sensor Suite
The M1 integrates 5 sensor types, forming the perceptual foundation that enables autonomous operation.
This sensor configuration enables the M1 to perceive its environment and operate autonomously in its intended use cases. Multiple sensor modalities provide redundancy and more robust perception than any single sensor type alone.
Explore sensor technologies: components glossary · full components directory
M1 Use Cases & Applications
Companion robots provide social interaction, emotional support, and entertainment. Unlike utility robots, their primary value proposition is the relationship they build with their owner. The best companions learn preferences, develop personalities, and create genuine emotional connections.
Capabilities That Enable Real-World Use
The M1 offers 10 distinct capabilities, each contributing to the robot's practical utility.
These capabilities work together with the robot's 5 onboard sensor types and Embodied-intelligence platform with whole-home mapping, visual recognition and obstacle avoidance, posture/motion tracking, multilingual conversational interaction, and support for open programming, VR integration, and reinforcement-learning tools AI platform to deliver practical, real-world performance.
Ecosystem Integration
The M1 integrates with the following platforms and ecosystems, extending its utility beyond standalone operation.
This ecosystem compatibility enables the M1 to work as part of a broader automation setup rather than operating in isolation.
M1 Capabilities
10
Capabilities
5
Sensor Types
AI
Embodied-intelligence platfo…
M1 Technology Stack Overview
The M1 by Zeroth Robotics integrates 6 distinct technology components across sensing, connectivity, intelligence, and interaction layers. The physical platform features a height of 494mm (19.45 in), a weight of Robot body 2.8kg (6.17 lbs) + mobility base 1.4kg (3.08 lbs), a top speed of 0.05m/s (bipedal); 0.6m/s (wheeled), providing the foundation on which this technology stack operates.
Perception — 5 Sensor Types
The perception layer is built on LDS LiDAR, iTOF depth sensor, Vision camera, IMU, 3-microphone circular array. These work in concert to give the robot a detailed understanding of its operating environment. This multi-sensor approach provides redundancy and enables the robot to function reliably even when individual sensors encounter challenging conditions such as low light, reflective surfaces, or cluttered spaces.
Intelligence — Embodied-intelligence platform with whole-home mapping, visual recognition and obstacle avoidance, posture/motion tracking, multilingual conversational interaction, and support for open programming, VR integration, and reinforcement-learning tools
Embodied-intelligence platform with whole-home mapping, visual recognition and obstacle avoidance, posture/motion tracking, multilingual conversational interaction, and support for open programming, VR integration, and reinforcement-learning tools serves as the computational brain, processing sensor data, making navigation decisions, and orchestrating the robot's autonomous behaviors. The quality of this AI platform directly influences how well the robot handles novel situations, adapts to changes in its environment, and improves its performance over time through learning.
Who Should Consider the M1?
Target Audience
Social and companion robots are purchased by families, elderly individuals, and tech enthusiasts looking for interactive, emotionally engaging robotic pets or social companions. They are particularly popular in Japan and increasingly in senior care contexts worldwide.
Key Considerations
Emotional expressiveness, interaction quality, voice recognition, personality development over time, and durability (especially for children) are what matter most. Privacy controls for cameras and microphones are increasingly important. Battery life determines how available the companion is throughout the day.
Price Context
Availability
Pre-orderThe M1 is available for pre-order. Pre-ordering secures your position in the delivery queue, though actual ship dates may vary.
M1: Strengths & Trade-offs
Engineering compromises and where this companions robot excels
What the M1 does well
Solid sensor coverage
The M1 integrates 5 sensor types, providing good perceptual coverage for its intended applications. This sensor complement covers the essential modalities needed for effective companions operation while keeping complexity manageable.
Broad capability set
With 10 distinct capabilities, the M1 is designed as a versatile platform rather than a single-task device. This breadth means the robot can handle varied scenarios and workflows, reducing the need for multiple specialized robots and increasing its utility across different situations.
What to consider carefully
Currently in pre-order
The M1 is not yet available as a finished, shipping product. While pre-ordering secures a position in the delivery queue, actual delivery timelines and final specifications should be confirmed with the manufacturer.
Note: This strengths and trade-offs assessment is based on the M1's documented specifications as tracked in the ui44 database. Real-world performance depends on deployment conditions, firmware maturity, and environmental factors. For the most current information, check the Zeroth Robotics manufacturer page or visit the official product page. Use the comparison tool to evaluate these trade-offs against competing robots in the same category.
How Companions Robot Technology Works
Understanding the engineering behind this category
Companion robots sit at the intersection of engineering and emotional design. Unlike utility robots measured by specifications like suction power or payload capacity, companion robots are judged by how well they make people feel — their expressiveness, responsiveness, personality, and ability to form genuine-seeming bonds with their owners. The technology behind these emotional machines is surprisingly sophisticated, drawing from psychology, animation, and cutting-edge AI.
Navigation & Mobility
Companion robots typically operate in confined indoor spaces and prioritize safe, predictable movement over sophisticated mapping. Most use simple but effective navigation combining bump sensors, cliff detection, and basic obstacle avoidance. Some advanced models incorporate camera-based person-following — the ability to track and follow a specific person through rooms. Unlike utility robots that need systematic coverage, companion robots navigate toward social engagement: moving toward voices, approaching detected family members, or positioning themselves for optimal interaction. The movement itself is often designed to convey personality — a curious robot might lean forward when exploring, while a timid one might approach cautiously.
The Role of AI
AI is the heart of a companion robot's appeal. Emotion recognition systems analyze facial expressions, voice tone, and behavioral patterns to infer the user's emotional state and respond appropriately. Natural language processing enables conversational interaction that goes beyond simple command-response patterns. Personality systems create consistent behavioral traits that make the robot feel like an individual rather than a generic device. Machine learning allows the robot to adapt to its owner's preferences, schedule, and interaction style over time. The most advanced companion robots use generative AI to create novel responses and behaviors rather than relying solely on pre-programmed scripts, making interactions feel more natural and less repetitive.
Sensor Fusion & Perception
Companion robot sensors prioritize social perception over environmental mapping. Cameras detect faces, read expressions, and enable recognition of family members. Microphone arrays with beamforming capture and localize voice from across a room, enabling natural conversation without shouting. Touch sensors across the body detect petting, hugging, and other physical interaction, triggering appropriate emotional responses. Some models include heart-rate or breathing-rate sensors in their touch surfaces, enabling health-monitoring features for elderly users. Temperature and light sensors help the robot understand context — bedtime versus activity time — and adjust its behavior accordingly.
Power & Battery Management
Companion robots need to be available throughout the day to maintain the social bond with their owner. Battery life of eight hours or more is typical, with automatic return-to-charging-dock behavior when levels drop. Power management is designed to be invisible — the robot should seem always available and never interrupt a social moment to announce low battery. Some companion robots use sleep modes during inactive periods, with motion or sound detection to wake instantly when the owner approaches. Charging docks often double as the robot's designated resting spot, making the charging behavior feel natural rather than mechanical.
Safety by Design
Companion robots prioritize child and elderly safety with rounded corners, pinch-free joint designs, and materials safe for skin contact. Emotional safety is equally important — companion robots are designed to never express anger, fear, or distress in ways that could upset vulnerable users. Privacy features include physical camera covers, microphone mute buttons, and transparent data handling policies. For elderly users, companion robots may include fall-detection alerts, activity monitoring, and remote check-in features that balance safety with privacy. The robot's emotional responses are carefully calibrated to avoid over-attachment or dependency concerns.
What's Next for Companions Robots
Companion robotics is evolving toward more nuanced emotional intelligence, deeper personalization, and expanded health-monitoring capabilities. Advances in generative AI are enabling more natural and varied conversational interaction. Future companion robots may serve as health monitoring platforms that detect changes in an owner's mood, activity levels, or cognitive patterns — providing early warning of health issues to family members or caregivers. The integration of companion features into utility robots (and vice versa) may blur category boundaries, creating household robots that are both helpful and emotionally engaging.
The M1 by Zeroth Robotics incorporates many of these technology pillars. For a detailed look at the specific sensors and components used in the M1, see the sensor analysis and connectivity sections above, or browse the complete components glossary for explanations of every technology used across the robotics industry.
M1 in the Companions Market
How this robot compares in the companions landscape
At $2,899, the M1 is positioned in the premium tier for companions robots. At this price point, buyers expect top-tier build quality, advanced features, and strong after-sales support.
The M1's 5 sensor types provide solid perceptual coverage for its intended use cases. This mid-range sensor suite balances cost with capability, covering the essential modalities needed for companions applications.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Side-by-side specs, capability overlap analysis, and key differentiators.
For the full picture of Zeroth Robotics's portfolio and market strategy, visit the Zeroth Robotics manufacturer page.
Owning the M1: Setup, Maintenance & Tips
Practical guide from day one through years of ownership
Initial Setup
Companion robot setup is designed to be simple and engaging — the first interaction sets the tone for the relationship. Typical setup involves charging the robot, downloading the companion app, connecting to Wi-Fi, and going through an introduction sequence where the robot learns your face and name. Many companion robots have a personality development phase during the first few days, where they become more responsive and personalized as they learn your voice, habits, and preferences. Place the charging dock in a social area where the robot can be part of daily life rather than tucked away in a corner. Introduce the robot to all family members during setup so it can learn to recognize everyone.
Ongoing Maintenance
Companion robots generally require minimal maintenance. Weekly care includes wiping the exterior with a soft cloth, checking that sensors and cameras are clean, and ensuring the charging dock area is clear. Monthly tasks include checking for and installing software updates, cleaning any microphone or speaker grilles, and inspecting the wheels or locomotion system for hair or debris. The emotional design means that maintenance should feel like care rather than servicing — many owners naturally incorporate it into their interaction with the robot.
Software Updates & Long-Term Support
Software updates for companion robots often add new behaviors, expressions, voice capabilities, and interaction patterns. These updates keep the relationship fresh and can significantly enhance the robot's emotional range and social intelligence over time. Most companion robots update automatically during sleep or charging periods. Some manufacturers offer premium content subscriptions that add seasonal behaviors, educational content, or language capabilities.
Maximizing Longevity
Companion robots typically last three to five years or more with gentle handling. The primary concerns are battery health and physical wear from daily interaction. Avoid dropping the robot or handling it roughly, especially the camera and sensor areas. Keep the robot away from water and extreme temperatures. Battery life will gradually decrease over time; contact the manufacturer about battery replacement options when charging becomes noticeably more frequent. For children's companion robots, supervise initial interactions to establish gentle handling habits.
For Zeroth Robotics-specific support resources and documentation, visit the Zeroth Robotics page on ui44 or check the manufacturer's official website at Zeroth Robotics's product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the M1?
How much does the M1 cost?
Is the M1 available to buy?
What sensors does the M1 have?
How long does the M1 battery last?
What AI does the M1 use?
How does the M1 compare to the aibo (ERS-1000)?
Does the M1 work with smart home systems?
How current is the M1 data on ui44?
Data Integrity
All M1 data on ui44 is verified against official Zeroth Robotics sources, including spec sheets, product pages, and press releases. Last verified: 2026-04-05. Official source: Zeroth Robotics product page. If you find outdated or incorrect information, please let us know — accuracy is our top priority.
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