Meta Bets Big on AI-Powered Humanoid Robots

Meta Platforms Inc. is making its next major move beyond augmented reality and artificial intelligence—AI-powered humanoid robots. The tech giant is significantly investing in the development of futuristic robots designed to perform human-like physical tasks, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The company is forming a specialized team within its Reality Labs hardware division to drive the initiative. While Meta plans to develop its own humanoid robot hardware, its broader goal is to create AI, sensors, and software that can be integrated into robots manufactured by various companies.

Meta has already begun discussions with robotics firms, including Unitree Robotics and Figure AI Inc. Unlike Tesla’s Optimus, Meta has no immediate plans to launch a branded humanoid robot but may explore the possibility in the future, insiders revealed.

Confirming the new initiative to employees, Meta announced that the team will be led by Marc Whitten, a former executive at Unity Software Inc. and Amazon.com Inc. In an internal memo reviewed by Bloomberg, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, highlighted the company’s existing expertise in AI, hand tracking, low-bandwidth computing, and always-on sensors as key advantages in advancing robotics.

Meta executives believe their AI innovations and data from augmented and virtual reality devices could accelerate progress in humanoid robotics. While current humanoid robots struggle with basic tasks like folding clothes or handling dishes, Meta aims to bridge these gaps, making robotic assistance more practical for everyday use.