This Startup Brings WALL-E to Life and Launches Its Weird Cousin

Zeroth, an AI robotics startup, is bringing the beloved animated character Wall-E to life in the form of a functional robot companion. While the Disney-licensed Wall-E-inspired robot is currently available only in China, Zeroth plans to launch a U.S.-targeted alternative version of the robot, priced at $5,599.

The robot, named W1, does not replicate Wall-E’s iconic yellow exterior or its anthropomorphic eyes but retains the signature dual-track tread base—enabling it to easily navigate grass, gravel, and inclines. According to Zeroth, the W1 is designed for home and light-duty use, capable of carrying up to 110 pounds, more than double its own 44-pound weight. It is equipped with LiDAR, RGB cameras, and multiple sensors, allowing for autonomous navigation in dynamic environments.

The range of tasks supported by the W1 appears somewhat limited. The company states it can transport items, follow users, host interactive games, and capture photos using its 13-megapixel camera. The robot reaches a top speed of approximately 1.1 miles per hour (0.5 meters per second) and stands at a height of 22.6 inches.

In addition to the W1, Zeroth will introduce a smaller humanoid robot in the U.S. market. Named M1, this desktop-sized robot stands just 15 inches tall and starts at $2,899, positioned as a personal companion device. Powered by Google's Gemini large AI model, the M1 supports intelligent conversation, schedule reminders, fall detection, and home monitoring capabilities.

Zeroth notes that the M1 can operate both on tabletops and across floor surfaces, featuring self-recovery functionality to stand up independently after a fall in either mode. With a battery life of around two hours, the robot automatically returns to its charging dock when power runs low.

Pre-orders for both the M1 and W1 robots will begin in the United States during the first quarter of this year.