New Delhi: Meta Platforms Inc. is investing in AI-powered humanoid robots, forming a new robotics team within its Reality Labs division. The company aims to develop AI, sensors, and software for robots, with an initial focus on home assistance.
New Robotics Team at Reality Labs
Meta has launched a dedicated robotics team within its Reality Labs hardware division to accelerate humanoid robot development. The company is leveraging its expertise in AI and augmented reality to build software and sensor systems for humanoid robots. Rather than directly competing with Tesla’s Optimus, Meta plans to collaborate with robotics firms like Unitree Robotics and Figure AI Inc. to develop underlying technology.
Focus on AI and Software for Robotics
Meta executives believe their advancements in AI, virtual reality, and hand-tracking technology will help improve humanoid robots’ capabilities. Unlike self-driving cars, humanoid robots must adapt to varied home environments, making AI-driven learning crucial.
Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s chief technology officer, highlighted the company’s investments in low-bandwidth computing and always-on sensors as key enablers for robotics. The company envisions providing a software foundation for third-party manufacturers, similar to Google’s Android in the smartphone industry.
Meta’s Long-Term Vision in Robotics
Meta has been in discussions with robotics firms and is expected to integrate its Llama AI model into humanoid systems. The company is also exploring safety protocols, including power management and accident prevention, to address concerns about household robots.
Despite ongoing research, industry experts suggest widespread adoption of humanoid robots is still years away. Meta’s initiative signals growing competition in the space, with Apple and Google DeepMind also increasing their focus on robotics research.
