Elon Musk’s Optimus robots face challenges ahead: Could they really arrive in homes by 2027?

Optimus robots may hit households by 2027, but experts warn of challenges with autonomy, safety, and affordability.

Elon Musk’s ambitious vision of placing humanoid robots in homes is generating debate, with experts weighing in on when the Tesla Optimus bots might be widely available. During an event in Los Angeles on October 10, 2024, Musk showcased the robots, calling them “the biggest product ever of any kind.” He claimed the robots, priced between $20,000 and $30,000, could perform tasks like mowing lawns, cleaning, and even babysitting. While Musk suggested the bots could be sold by the end of 2025, experts remain cautious.

Dev Nag, CEO of QueryPal, believes it will take at least five years before consumers see Optimus bots in their homes, citing challenges like navigating uneven terrain and lasting on a single battery charge. Agnieszka Pilat, a robotics artist, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Mass adoption will take time because they’re very expensive. The software is complicated, and the hardware is complicated.”

Wedbush analyst Dan Ives, however, is more optimistic. After interacting with an Optimus bot at the event, he predicted household availability by 2027, calling the unveiling “jaw-dropping.” Nonetheless, experts warn of regulatory hurdles related to data privacy, safety standards, and liability.

Shawn DuBravac, CEO of Avrio Institute, pointed out that while Optimus can handle simple tasks, full autonomy for complex household chores is still some time away. Musk’s robots will also need to overcome social, cultural, and regulatory challenges before becoming commonplace in homes.