1X Robotics VP Lashes Out at Wired After Article Flags Sensual Marketing Around Neo Robot's Hands

Norwegian-American humanoid robotics startup 1X drew unexpected attention after Wired published a piece on its Neo robot's impressive hand dexterity — and noted a distinctly sensual pattern in the company's marketing materials. The article observed that promotional videos feature the robot's hands curling around a wine glass, unzipping a jacket, and fondling grapes to a smooth jazz soundtrack, and questioned whether the approach was appropriate given that Neo will initially be operated remotely by human operators who can see into users' homes.

1X VP of product and design Dar Sleeper responded publicly on X, accusing journalist Boone Ashworth of betrayal and broadly condemning tech journalism for dishonesty and malice. Critics noted the Wired piece was relatively restrained, and that Sleeper's reaction — including a complaint email sent directly to the author — raised questions about how robotics companies handle press scrutiny, particularly when legitimate privacy concerns are at stake.