Meta’s Next Big Bet: Humanoid Robots Powered by AI

Meta Aims Beyond the Metaverse into Humanoid Robotics

While most of us are still taking in the concept of a “metaverse,” technology titan Meta has implemented an even more daring venture – humanoid robots. Revealed by Andrew Bosworth, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, a fresh robotics research project is unfolding under Mark Zuckerberg’s auspice.

Painting a grand vision, Bosworth insinuated that Meta is prepared to pump billions into the creation of these human-like machines, describing it as an “AR-sized bet”. This terminology alludes to the colossal fiscal and engineering resources Meta has previously assigned to augmented reality, implying that humanoid robotics are not a mere sideline endeavor, but rather a key component of their future game plan.

Exploring Humanoid Robotics with an AI-first Approach

What really sparked interest was Bosworth’s casual dismissal of hardware development challenges in building these robots. During a recent interview, he stated, “I don’t think the hardware is the hard part”. Instead, he emphasizes the real obstacle lies in creating the artificial intelligence that will steer these robots, granting them the capacity to interact with the world in a human-esque fashion.

Meta’s dramatic shift towards robotics comes at a time when AI is advancing at dizzying speed. With the evolution of AI technologies like sophisticated machine learning techniques and powerful language models, the company recognizes a unique chance to amalgamate their AI studies with physical embodiments. Meta’s envisioned robots have the potential to function as aids, buddies, or even laborers in a multitude of scenarios, from domestic households to professional workplaces.

Much Anticipated Future for Meta and Tech Industry

This robotics venture is still in its fledgling phase, but it is clear that the initiative is backed by the top brass at Meta. Although Bosworth offered no specific timelines or trajectories, there’s a strong emphasis on long-term dedication and spending, underscoring Meta’s commitment for the long run.

This potentially groundbreaking project from Meta could redefine the consumer technology landscape if successful. It could also land Meta on the competitive map battling other tech behemoths like Tesla and Boston Dynamics, who are dabbling in robotics too. However, the key distinguishing factor for Meta is their software-centric strategy that prioritizes AI development before escalating hardware production.

Meta’s foray into humanoid robotics is nothing short of a bold step underpinning its determination to carve out the future of human-computer synergy. It’s too early to tell if this large-scale gamble will indeed pay dividends, yet one thing is certain – Meta is eager to dream big and invest equally so in their vision.

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original article at The Verge.