AI News Monitor

Meta Platforms is making a significant leap into the competitive world of humanoid robotics, according to an internal memo obtained by Reuters on Friday. The company has announced the creation of a new division within its Reality Labs unit, focused on developing AI-powered humanoid robots designed to assist with physical tasks.

This new move places Meta in direct competition with tech giants like Tesla and Figure AI, both of which are already exploring the potential of humanoid robots. The rise of advanced AI models, such as Meta’s Llama platform, is fueling innovation in robotics and automation across industries.

Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, explained that the new robotics product group will emphasize research and development in consumer humanoid robots. This effort aims to enhance the capabilities of the Llama AI platform, which currently powers various generative AI products across Meta’s social media networks.

Marc Whitten, former CEO of Cruise, has been appointed Vice President of Robotics to lead the initiative. Additionally, Meta hired John Koryl, the former CEO of The RealReal, as Vice President of Retail to expand its direct-to-consumer efforts. This includes increasing sales of Meta’s mixed-reality headsets and AI wearables, such as the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which the company produces in partnership with eyewear maker EssilorLuxottica.

Meta’s commitment to humanoid robotics marks a major bet on its Reality Labs unit, which has faced significant financial losses—around $5 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024. Despite the losses, Meta remains bullish about the potential of AI and mixed-reality technologies to drive future growth.

Meta’s focus is initially on developing AI-powered humanoid robots for household tasks. However, the company also plans to create the underlying AI, sensors, and software that could power robots from other manufacturers, potentially revolutionizing industries such as logistics and manufacturing.

This venture follows a wave of investments from other companies in AI-driven robotics, including recent funding of $350 million for Apptronik, a company building humanoid robots for warehouse use. Although Meta is not expected to launch its own branded robot immediately, it has begun discussions with robotics firms like Unitree Robotics and Figure AI to collaborate on the development of these advanced robots.

With this ambitious expansion, Meta is positioning itself as a key player in the growing field of robotics, harnessing its AI expertise to shape the future of automation.