The World Economic Forum has named Hello Robot Inc. as a 2026 Technology Pioneer, recognizing the company's innovative approach to developing practical, safe, and accessible robots for people. Founded in 2017 by Aaron Edsinger and Charlie Kemp, Hello Robot has been making waves in the robotics industry with its flagship robot, Stretch, an open-source platform for mobile manipulation.
Stretch is designed to operate close to people in homes, workplaces, and care settings, providing assistance with daily tasks such as fetching a drink of water, feeding themselves, and closing the blinds. For individuals with severe mobility impairments, including those with quadriplegia, Stretch offers a profound increase in independence and agency, allowing them to control the robot through a mobile phone app.
The World Economic Forum's recognition of Hello Robot as a Technology Pioneer is a testament to the company's focus on human-centric robotics. As Verena Kuhn, head of innovator communities at the World Economic Forum, noted, 'There has never been a more exciting time to push the boundaries of what technology can do for humanity.' Hello Robot's commitment to developing robots that work with people, not just in front of a camera, is a significant step forward in the field of robotics.
The company's approach to robotics is rooted in its founders' extensive experience in the field. With over 50 years of combined experience from MIT, Google, and the Georgia Institute of Technology, Edsinger and Kemp have developed a deep understanding of the potential of physical AI to improve people's lives. Their goal is to create robots that are not only technologically advanced but also practical, safe, and accessible to those who need them most.
Hello Robot's recognition as a Technology Pioneer is also a validation of the growing trend towards technology-driven automation and workflow transformation. As the company continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible with robotics, it is likely to have a significant impact on various industries, from healthcare to education. The potential for robots like Stretch to improve people's lives is vast, and Hello Robot is poised to play a leading role in this revolution.
The World Economic Forum's Technology Pioneers program has been recognizing early-stage companies that are transforming business and society at large for 26 years. This year's cohort includes a new generation of robotics companies that prioritize human benefit over spectacle, and Hello Robot is proud to be part of this community of innovators. As Edsinger noted, 'Being named a WEF Technology Pioneer is a meaningful validation that the world is ready for robots that are simply useful — robots that work with people, not just in front of a camera.'
