Meta Plans to Develop Humanoid Robot Hardware and Software

Bloomberg reported that Meta is planning to design both hardware and software for humanoid robots. According to insiders, a newly formed team within Meta's Reality Labs division will initially focus on developing "humanoid robot hardware" capable of performing household chores.

Bloomberg further noted that Meta's ambitions extend beyond just household robots. The company aims to develop the foundational artificial intelligence, sensors, and software necessary for robots that will eventually be manufactured and sold by multiple companies. This suggests that Meta may not launch its own branded robots at first. It was also reported that Meta is in discussions with robotics companies such as Unitree Robotics and Figure AI regarding these plans.

Meta's Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, wrote in a memo seen by Bloomberg: "The core technologies we have invested in and built within Reality Labs and artificial intelligence complement the technological advancements needed for robotics."

Tesla has already showcased its own humanoid robot, and other tech giants are making moves into the robotics space. Apple recently demonstrated a product resembling a Pixar-style desk lamp that interacts with users through voice commands and gestures. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots to build its future smart home ecosystem. NVIDIA also shows great ambition in the field of robotics.

The new robotics team at Meta will be led by Mark Whitten, who previously served as CEO of Cruise, General Motors' now-defunct autonomous taxi project. He has also held executive roles at Microsoft, Sonos, Unity, and Amazon.

In addition, while investing $6.5 billion in artificial intelligence, Meta is also intensifying its efforts to promote its smart glasses. Bloomberg reported that Meta has hired John Collier, the former CEO of luxury resale platform The RealReal, as its Vice President of Retail Operations.