A new demonstration of the Figure 02 humanoid robot has sparked renewed debate over the role of artificial intelligence in everyday domestic life.
According to a report by CNET News, California-based robotics firm Figure AI unveiled footage of the machine folding six towels with remarkable precision, completing each in just 22 seconds. The company says this milestone reflects how far humanoid robots have advanced in handling routine household tasks.
The towel-folding trial followed a separate video posted by Figure CEO Brett Adcock, in which the robot was seen crouching to load a washing machine — a function many consumers view as highly practical.
Figure is not alone in this pursuit. Norwegian robotics company 1X has demonstrated its humanoid robot Neo, capable of carrying laundry baskets and operating washing machines. These showcases underline the growing race among robotics developers to capture the domestic robotics market, long considered one of the most promising areas for AI-powered machines.
However, experts caution that while robots have made progress, limitations remain. Tasks such as sorting clothing, managing different fabric sensitivities, and adapting to varied appliance designs are still beyond current robotic capabilities.
Despite these constraints, the speed, precision, and consistency of Figure 02’s towel-folding demo suggest that household chores may soon become one of the first areas where humanoid robots achieve mainstream adoption, transforming the way people live and manage daily routines.
