Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, is back — and it’s not assembling cars or lifting boxes this time. In a surprising twist, it’s dancing. A new video posted by Elon Musk on the platform X has captivated millions, showing the robot performing fluid and almost human-like dance moves. The video sparked curiosity and disbelief in equal measure, with some viewers wondering whether the footage was even real.
The viral clip quickly ignited a flurry of reactions online. While some speculated that the performance might be AI-generated or enhanced, Musk stepped in to put those doubts to rest. According to him, the video was completely authentic and captured in real time — no CGI, no filters.
AI, Grok, Weighs In
Even X’s homegrown AI chatbot, Grok, chimed in on the trending topic. When asked if the footage was genuine, Grok confirmed that the dancing robot appeared to be the actual Optimus model. It cited past showcases, including the October 2024 'We, Robot' event and a more recent update in April 2025, where Tesla demonstrated the robot’s ability to walk and perform coordinated movements.
Social media had its usual mix of amazement and humour. One user quipped that Tesla should turn Optimus into a wall painter, predicting the company would "sell millions" if it did. Another praised the robot's precision and balance, noting that it could eventually reduce workplace injuries when deployed in physically demanding environments.
From Stage Gimmick to Engineering Marvel
Optimus has come a long way since its theatrical debut at Tesla’s AI Day in 2021, when a human in a robot costume danced on stage to illustrate the concept. A year later, Tesla unveiled actual prototypes with limited mobility. Since then, the robot has slowly evolved, demonstrating practical abilities like carrying objects, walking, and now, apparently, dancing with surprising grace.
But the development path hasn’t been entirely smooth. Last month, Musk disclosed that China’s export regulations had impacted Optimus' progress. The issue centred on rare earth magnets, a key component for the robot. Chinese officials reportedly wanted to ensure these materials wouldn't be repurposed for military tech. “The magnets were strictly for the robot’s use,” Musk emphasised.
A Glimpse Into the Future?
This unexpected dance demo seems to be more than just a publicity stunt. It showcases not only Tesla’s engineering progress but also its efforts to make the robot relatable and engaging to the public. Whether Optimus ends up helping in homes, warehouses, or factories, the viral video offers a glimpse into a future where robots aren’t just efficient — they might also have rhythm.