A new humanoid robot named Sprout was publicly introduced in January 2026 at a Manhattan office in New York. The robot was developed by Fauna Robotics, a United States startup that conducted two years of private research before the launch. Sprout is about one meter tall and has a soft, padded body designed to appear safe and friendly. The introduction comes as advances in artificial intelligence and robotics continue to change the industry. Unlike industrial robots used in factories, Sprout is intended for homes, schools, and research environments. The company focuses on social interaction rather than physical power. Sprout is sold mainly as a developer platform for universities and technology companies, with a reported price of about 50,000 dollars per unit.

Sprout moves using mapping and navigation systems that support careful walking and safe movement around people and furniture. Engineers reported that the robot can recover its balance after small disturbances during testing. The robot can perform light tasks, such as picking up small objects or moving between rooms, through adjustable software tools. Improvements in batteries and motors allow longer operation and smoother movement, supporting real-world use. Designers stated that the robot avoids a threatening appearance and uses a friendly design. Experts noted that this approach may reduce fear and encourage acceptance. However, challenges remain, including high costs and uncertain demand for social robots.