Meta Is Also Interested In Making Humanoid Robots

It seems that Facebook’s parent company Meta is also looking to enter the humanoid robot business. According to industry analyst Mark Gurman’s report for Bloomberg, after getting into the business of augmented reality and artificial intelligence, Meta has found its next big bet in the form of AI-powered humanoid robots.

Meta is investing heavily in AI-powered humanoid robots

As per the source, Meta is investing a lot of money in the research and development of AI-powered humanoid robots. It wants to make robots that can act like humans and help their owners with physical tasks. Meta’s first focus will be on creating robots that can help with household chores. However, the company’s overarching goal is to make AI, sensors, and software for humanoid robots, which it can sell to third-party companies to help them develop their robotic products.

Meta is reportedly aiming to be the Android of robots. Currently, the robots do not have advanced enough technology to fold clothes, do dishes, or complete other household chores. However, the Facebook parent feels that its research in AI and VR could boost robot development. Meta is already in discussions with robotics companies like Unitree Robotics and Figure AI regarding its plans in the field, Bloomberg reports.

As per the source, Meta’s new robotics division will be led by Marc Whitten, the former CEO of GM’s now-abandoned robotaxi prototype Cruise. Whitten has previously worked as an executive for companies like Microsoft, Sonos, Unity, and Amazon. He will have a headcount to hire 100 engineers this year for Meta’s new robotics development team.

“The core technologies we’ve already invested in and built across Reality Labs and AI are complementary to developing the advancements needed for robotics,” Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s chief technology officer, wrote in a memo seen by Bloomberg. “We believe that expanding our portfolio to invest in this field will only accrue value to Meta AI and our mixed and augmented reality programs”. Whitten will directly report to Bosworth, suggests the report.

Apple and OpenAI are reportedly also making humanoid robots

If Meta does end up getting into the business of humanoid robots, it will have to compete with Apple and OpenAI. These companies are reportedly also planning to get into the business of making humanoid robots. Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its future smart home ecosystem.

As for ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, it has filed a trademark application with the US Patent and Trademark Office for humanoid robots. Unfortunately, there’s no word when exactly these companies will launch their robots.