Boston Dynamics Atlas wins Best Robot at CES 2026, ushering in the era of embodied AI

The Atlas humanoid robot, developed by Boston Dynamics in partnership with Hyundai Motor Group, was named "Best Robot" at the Best of CES™ 2026 awards by the CNET Group, recognition granted by specialized journalists from outlets such as CNET, PCMag, Mashable, and ZDNET. The award highlights technologies capable of redefining the global tech landscape, placing Atlas as the absolute reference in advanced humanoid robotics. Officially presented during Hyundai's CES 2026 conference, Atlas drew attention for its natural locomotion, refined design, and product maturity. Unlike purely experimental prototypes, the exhibited version was designed for real use in industrial environments, marking the transition of humanoid robotics from the lab to the production line. From a technical standpoint, Atlas stands out for its 56 degrees of freedom architecture, with fully rotational joints and advanced sensors enabling dynamic motion in human-designed spaces. The robot can lift up to 50 kg, perform high-precision tasks, and learn new functions in less than a day, using AI-driven learning models for rapid operational adaptation. Another strategic differentiator is its autonomy. Atlas was designed to operate independently from day one, including automatic battery swapping and continuous operation in demanding industrial environments. Its resistance to water, thermal variations, and industrial cleaning processes makes it suitable for modern factories focused on safety, predictability, and operational efficiency. Hyundai plans to deploy Atlas at Metaplant America in the US by 2028, initially for tasks such as parts sequencing. By 2030, the robot is expected to take on more complex activities, such as component assembly and repetitive or high-risk tasks, expanding automation and reducing human exposure to physically exhausting work. This recognition signals a clear turning point in industrial robotics: the definitive entry of embodied AI onto the factory floor.