The video you’ll watch three times: this humanoid robot can walk, fly, roll… and transform to fly!

The X1 robot from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) redefines the limits of robotics by merging the qualities of a humanoid, a drone, and a vehicle into one agile machine. Designed to transition smoothly between walking, flying, and rolling, it stands as a striking hybrid creation.

A fusion of two machines

The X1 combines two different systems: the Unitree G1 humanoid robot, made in China, and Caltech’s M4 drone. The M4 is unique in that, upon landing, it rotates its arms and repositions its circular propeller guards to become wheels, turning into a compact rolling robot.

Transformation and functionality

When integrated with the humanoid G1, the result is a machine that looks almost like a sleek, futuristic mech with mechanical wings folded behind it. The humanoid serves as the main structure, capable of walking on two legs, climbing stairs, and opening doors.

Once in an open space, the humanoid leans forward to form a launchpad, allowing the M4 to detach and take flight. After flying, the drone can land, convert to wheeled mode, and continue navigating on the ground.

Three years of development

Researchers at Caltech spent three years perfecting this integrated motion system, enabling X1 to travel across both land and air, though not underwater. Its ability to adapt across multiple terrains makes it one of the most versatile robots to date.

"It walks, it flies, and it rolls — meet X1, the hybrid robot from Caltech that blurs the lines between humanoid, drone, and vehicle."

Author’s summary: Caltech’s X1 unites humanoid movement and drone agility, creating a versatile machine capable of walking, flying, and rolling in one seamless transformation.