Meta, the company led by Mark Zuckerberg, is reportedly working on technology for humanoid robots that could help with household tasks. According to Bloomberg, Meta has created a new team under its Reality Labs division. This team will focus on building software, sensors, and artificial intelligence for robots. While Meta may not launch its own robot right away, it wants to provide the core technology for other companies.
Meta’s Vision for Humanoid Robots
Meta’s goal is to create the software and AI that power humanoid robots. The company is reportedly in talks with robotics firms like Unitree Robotics and Figure AI. These firms may manufacture robots using Meta’s technology. This approach is similar to what Google and Qualcomm did with Android and Snapdragon chips in the smartphone industry.
Instead of selling a Meta-branded robot, the company plans to build prototypes and technology that serve as a foundation for robotics. Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, said in an internal memo that the AI and Reality Labs technology Meta has developed can help advance robotics.
A person involved in the project said that the software, sensors, and AI Meta is working on are the same core technologies used in humanoid robots. This suggests that Meta’s research in AI and mixed reality could play a big role in shaping the future of robotics.
A New Team and Major Investments
Meta has put a lot of money into Reality Labs, which develops products like the Quest VR headset and the Ray-Ban smart glasses. This year, the company plans to invest $65 billion in similar projects, including AI infrastructure and robotics.
Marc Whitten, who previously worked on General Motors’ experimental robotaxi project called Cruise, is reportedly leading the new robotics team. Meta is also expected to hire around 100 engineers for the project this year. This shows the company’s commitment to robotics as a future market.
The Growing Interest in Robotics
Meta is not the only big tech company exploring robotics. A few days ago, Apple released a research paper about its new framework called EMOTION. This framework aims to teach humanoid robots how to mimic facial expressions and hand gestures. Unlike Meta, Apple is also working on non-humanoid robots. This suggests that the robotics industry is expanding, with different companies taking unique approaches.
Other tech firms are also investing in AI-driven robotics. Tesla has been developing its humanoid robot, Optimus, which is designed to perform simple tasks. Companies like Boston Dynamics have created robots that can walk, jump, and even do backflips. Amazon, meanwhile, has introduced warehouse robots and home assistant devices. With Meta now joining this space, competition in the robotics industry is expected to grow.
What This Means for the Future
Meta’s move into robotics aligns with its long-term vision of AI-driven products. The company has been heavily investing in AI, mixed reality, and virtual reality. By expanding into robotics, Meta could integrate its AI models into real-world applications.
If successful, Meta’s technology could be used in a variety of settings. Humanoid robots could help with household chores, assist elderly individuals, or even work in customer service roles. The development of AI-powered humanoids could change industries like healthcare, logistics, and hospitality.
While Meta’s humanoid robots are still years away from launching, this step signals a major shift for the company. If it can provide key AI and software solutions for robots, it could become a major player in the robotics industry.
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