Tech Desk 
Feb 15, 2025
In a significant development, Meta has announced plans to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-driven humanoid robots.
According to a Bloomberg report, a newly formed team within Meta’s Reality Labs division will focus on creating “humanoid robot hardware” capable of performing household tasks.
“The core technologies we’ve already invested in and built across Reality Labs and AI complement the advancements needed for robotics,” Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, stated in a memo.
“We believe that expanding our portfolio to invest in this field will add value to Meta AI and our mixed and augmented reality programmes,” he added.
Meta’s ambitions go beyond developing a Meta-branded robot. Instead, the company aims to create the underlying AI, sensors, and software that will power robots manufactured and sold by various companies.
To achieve this, Meta has engaged in discussions with robotics firms, including Unitree Robotics and Figure AI.
Bloomberg reports that the company’s new robotics team will be led by Marc Whitten, the former CEO of self-driving car company Cruise, whom Meta has appointed as Vice President of Robotics. Additionally, John Koryl, the former CEO of second-hand e-commerce platform The RealReal, has been hired as Vice President of Retail.
Meta is not alone in its foray into robotics. Recently, Tesla, led by Elon Musk, showcased its own humanoid robots.
Meanwhile, Apple has offered a glimpse into its Pixar-style robotic lamp, designed to interact with users through voice commands and gestures. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has noted that Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots as part of its upcoming smart home ecosystem.
Nvidia, another major tech company, has also announced plans to enter the robotics sector in the near future.
