CES 2026: Boston Dynamics and Hyundai unveil Atlas, a humanoid robot that’s eerily lifelike

If someone told you Boston Dynamics and Hyundai were sharing a stage at CES 2026, you might expect a concept car with legs or a robot that parallel parks itself. Instead, the duo delivered something unexpected. Meet Atlas, a two-legged humanoid robot that has finally stepped out of the lab and into the spotlight.

The keynote opened with a troupe of Boston Dynamics’ Spot robots performing a tightly choreographed routine. Slick, impressive, and very on brand. Then Atlas walked onstage.

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This is a new version of Atlas, and it shows. The proportions are uncannily human, the gait confident, the movements fluid enough to make you momentarily forget there’s no person inside. There is one moment that breaks the spell; the way Atlas stands up before it starts moving feels… off.

Boston Dynamics is upfront about it. This is simply the most efficient way for the robot to get upright. Atlas isn’t trying to pass as human, and it doesn’t need to play by our rules.

Built for the real world, not the demo reel

As Atlas paced the stage, Boston Dynamics confirmed that this version will be out and about in the field. Atlas can lift up to 50kg, can extend its arms up to 7.5 feet, and can operate in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°Celsius. It’s also fully water-resistant, happy to work where humans would rather not.

It is powered via a swappable battery system that delivers up to four hours of runtime. When energy runs low, Atlas doesn’t wait for help; it returns to its charging station and replaces the battery pack on its own. It also learns quickly, and crucially, can share what it learns with other Atlas units. Think less lone robot, more collective workforce.

Where Hyundai, and AI, fit in

So, where does Hyundai come in? The carmaker isn’t just lending its name. Hyundai is partnering with Boston Dynamics to manufacture Atlas, supply key actuators, and help build a scalable, resilient supply chain. Every Atlas robot produced this year will be deployed at Hyundai’s Robotics Metaplant Application Center (RMAC), where they’ll be put to work in real industrial environments.

There’s also a serious AI brain power involved. Google DeepMind is collaborating with both companies to develop Atlas’ cognitive abilities, using advanced AI models to improve perception, decision-making, and learning.

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For now, Atlas’ job description is factory-first. But both companies are clearly thinking longer term. The endgame is a robot that doesn’t just belong on a production line, but one that could eventually cross the threshold into the home. What do you think of Atlas’ capabilities? Drop a comment with your thoughts and stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma for the latest CES 2026 coverage.