Aaron Edsinger, Hello Robot’s CEO and co-founder, talks with Claire Asher on Robot Talk about designing practical assistive robots, safety, and bringing Stretch into homes.
Edsinger describes Hello Robot as a company focused on useful, safe robots that work alongside people. Its Stretch robot is used in research, assistive settings, and business pilots, including data centers. The design began with older adults and people with mobility impairments in mind.
After years building humanoids, Edsinger says he wanted a more practical and affordable approach. Stretch combines a mobile base, sensor mast, and telescoping arm in a lightweight form that can fit through narrow home passages and be moved like a household appliance. Its utilitarian appearance also helps set realistic expectations about what it can do.
Edsinger says homes remain difficult for robots because conditions vary, from clutter and lighting to carpets, cords, and pets. Stretch can already help people with severe mobility impairments who control it through tools such as a computer mouse. Their guidance gives users more control over daily tasks and lets the robot work without solving every challenge autonomously.
Edsinger says the company currently learns about safety by testing robots in real homes, since contact and forces are hard to model in simulation. Stretch’s safety approach includes low-force joints, reduced risk of tipping, and sensors that provide a 360-degree view. He advises robotics companies to be realistic about development timelines and build a durable business around the technology. Hello Robot is raising funds to bring Stretch into homes, starting with people who need assistance most.
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