Meta Plans to Invest Billions in AI Humanoid Robots

Meta reportedly plans to develop AI-powered humanoid robots, sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg. Meta’s initial focus will be creating a robot capable of handling household chores. Its broader strategy involves developing AI systems, sensors, and software to be utilized by various robotics manufacturers.

The tech giant has already discussed potential partnerships with robotics companies such as Unitree Robotics and Figure AI. Unnamed sources told Bloomberg that, for now, the company doesn’t plan to produce Meta-branded robots but doesn’t exclude this possibility in the future.

Meta sees potential in the humanoid robotics market as current humanoid robots can’t execute everyday chores like folding clothes, placing dishes in a rack, or setting a table. These capabilities could attract consumers interested in owning a robot. Meta believes it can improve the humanoid robotics industry by leveraging its expertise in AI, machine learning, and sensor technology – all crucial for creating adaptable robots.

Additionally, Meta has access to vast amounts of data from its AR and VR devices, such as Quest headsets and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. This data can help train AI models to improve robots’ understanding of human environments.

“The core technologies we’ve already invested in and built across Reality Labs and AI are complementary to developing the advancements needed for robotics,” Meta’s chief technology officer, Andrew Bosworth, wrote in a memo reviewed by Bloomberg.

As part of this initiative, Meta plans to develop tools for robot safety, addressing possible dangers such as humanoids running out of power mid-task or inadvertently hurting people while performing tasks.

Meta is forming a new team within its Reality Labs hardware division, as announced to employees last week. Marc Whitten, who has held executive roles at General Motors Co.’s Cruise self-driving car division, gaming company Unity Software Inc., and Amazon.com Inc., will lead Meta’s new robotics team. He will reportedly have a headcount of around 100 engineers to hire this year.

This move signifies Meta’s entry into the robotics arena, positioning it in the competitive landscape alongside companies like Tesla, which’s beginning limited production of its Optimus humanoid robot this year.

The new project, which the company has yet to officially confirm, is part of a broader reorganization within Meta, aiming to make Reality Labs a core aspect of its business. Reportedly, Meta plans to spend $65 billion this year on Reality Labs projects, including AI infrastructure and the new humanoids initiative.