Meta Develops Humanoid Robots with Advanced Technology

Meta is venturing into the world of humanoid robots, aiming to create the necessary technology that powers them. According to a report from Bloomberg, the company has established a new team within its Reality Labs division. This team's primary focus will be on developing hardware and software for humanoid robots designed to perform various household tasks.

Bloomberg emphasizes that Meta has larger ambitions beyond just building their own robots. The company plans to develop the core technologies needed, including AI, sensors, and software, which can then be utilized by a variety of robotics manufacturers. This means that Meta might not start with a robot under its own brand name, but instead collaborate with existing robotics firms such as Unitree Robotics and Figure AI to bring their vision to life.

Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s chief technology officer, highlighted in a memo that the technologies they have already invested in through Reality Labs and AI are well-suited for robotics development. He believes that increasing their investment in this field will enhance both Meta's AI capabilities and their mixed and augmented reality products.

Other major technology companies have also begun exploring the robotics sector, with companies like Tesla showcasing their versions of humanoid robots. At the same time, Apple has been researching robots, including one with a Pixar-inspired design capable of interactive voice and gesture commands. The tech giant is reportedly looking into developing both humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its future smart home ecosystem. Nvidia is also pursuing significant opportunities within the robotics industry.

Leading Meta's new robotics team is Marc Whitten, who previously served as the CEO of GM's now-defunct robotaxi venture, Cruise. Whitten's background includes executive roles at major companies like Microsoft, Sonos, Unity, and Amazon, positioning him uniquely to guide this initiative.

As Meta enhances its engagement with AI, having made a whopping $65 billion investment in the sector, it is also stepping up its retail efforts for its smart glasses. Bloomberg reports that the company has appointed John Koryl, the former CEO of The RealReal—an online luxury consignment store—as its new vice president of retail.Meta, robots, technology