Meta: $65 Billion for AI-Powered Humanoid Robots

According to Bloomberg News, following its investments in artificial intelligence and augmented reality, Meta Platforms Inc. is turning its attention to developing AI-powered humanoid robots. The company is investing heavily in this technology, envisaging robots capable of helping people with everyday tasks. To achieve this, Meta is establishing a new team within its Reality Labs hardware division.

The company will not limit itself to developing hardware for humanoid robots: it also plans to design the software, sensors and AI required for other companies to manufacture and sell these devices. Its initial focus will be on household tasks, although its broader ambition is to create a standard technology platform for the entire humanoid robotics sector.

The humanoid robot market

Meta has begun discussions with specialist companies such as Unitree Robotics and Figure AI Inc. to explore potential partnerships. At least initially, however, it does not intend to manufacture a Meta-branded robot, thereby avoiding direct competition with Tesla Optimus. That does not rule out doing so in the future.

The project follows similar initiatives in robotics and artificial intelligence launched by other major technology companies, including Apple and Google DeepMind. Meta has appointed Marc Whitten, a former executive at General Motors' Cruise, to lead the new team. Whitten left his previous role to join the company and will report directly to Meta's Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth. He will be responsible for recruiting approximately 100 engineers during the year.

Progress and strategic objectives

Meta believes its advances in artificial intelligence and data collection through augmented and virtual reality devices could accelerate the development of humanoid robotics. At present, these robots cannot yet reliably carry out simple tasks such as folding clothes, filling a glass of water or washing dishes. Nevertheless, the company believes improvements in AI could make them useful enough to become commonplace in homes.

Meta's strategic objective is to become a standard platform in the sector, much as Google's Android operating system has done for smartphones. To that end, Meta will invest in the software and hardware technologies needed to power robots, building on components already developed for its products, such as Quest headsets and Ray-Ban smart glasses. In 2025, Meta expects to spend $65 billion on AI infrastructure and its new robotics initiative.

Tesla is a key competitor in this market with its Optimus robot, which is expected to retail for around $30,000. While other companies, such as Boston Dynamics, focus on industrial robotics, Meta is targeting the domestic market.

Humanoid robots share many technologies with autonomous vehicles, including the need for large amounts of data and advanced AI capabilities. Meta nevertheless believes the greatest challenge lies in the home, which is a far more variable environment than standardised urban roads.

Finally, Meta will also focus on robot safety, addressing issues such as the risk of accidents involving moving parts and power management. Although the technology is still some way from commercialisation, the company is convinced that humanoid robotics will be a fundamental part of its future.

Source: Bloomberg News