Sharpa Transforms Robotics with Innovative CraftNet VTLA Technology at CES 2026

Sharpa's Groundbreaking Presentation at CES 2026

At this year's CES, held in Las Vegas, tech enthusiasts were treated to an impressive performance by Sharpa's newly introduced full-body robot named North. Unlike typical presentations, Sharpa opted for a live demonstration, showcasing North's remarkable ability to engage in fully autonomous ping-pong matches against human players. Drawing crowds from the exhibition floor, these matches highlighted the robot's proficiency and versatility.

This live demo spanned four consecutive days, each lasting a full eight hours, offering a thrilling experience as North executed flawless volleys. The decision to engage audiences through live gameplay rather than predictable showcases was a strategic move that resonated well, generating excitement and interaction throughout the event.

Crafting the Future with CraftNet

Alongside the performance of North, Sharpa unveiled CraftNet, an innovative hierarchical VTLA (vision-tactile-language-action) model that signifies a giant leap forward in fine manipulation technology. This robust system aims to refine how robots interact with their environment, enhancing their ability to perform complex tasks autonomously. CraftNet integrates advanced hardware with AI functionalities, presenting a comprehensive solution for tasks requiring delicate handling and precision.

Alicia Veneziani, Sharpa's Global VP of GTM and President of Europe, emphasized the significance of this technology during her presentation. She stated, “While there are robots capable of dancing and performing stunts, it's the manipulation of objects that remains the biggest challenge for making robots truly useful.” With this in mind, Sharpa's dedication to solving these manipulation challenges positions them at the forefront of the robotics industry.

Achievements in Autonomous Tasks

During the CES exhibition, North demonstrated its fine manipulation capabilities powered by the newly launched Wave robotic hand, which boasts 22 active degrees of freedom and an advanced tactile sensing system. The robot successfully completed a series of tasks, including capturing over 2,000 photographs and assembling more than 300 windmills autonomously. The windmill assembly task stood out for its complexity, showcasing North's ability to perform a continuous series of over 30 successful steps—a remarkable achievement in robotics.

This level of expertise generated a buzz on social media and among robotics aficionados, underscoring the significant advancements made by Sharpa. The anticipation for the production version of North, due for release in mid-2026, is already building momentum within the tech community.