Meta Aims to Be the Android Leader in Robotics

Meta Wants to Become the Android of Robotics

In a bold move towards the future of technology, Meta is setting its sights on robotics, aiming to become a key player in the industry much like Android is for mobile devices. Following the potential launch of its Project Orion augmented reality glasses, Meta is pivoting to develop humanoid robots, as reported by Sources‘ Alex Heath after discussions with Meta’s CTO Andrew Bosworth.

While competitors like Apple, Google, and Tesla have focused heavily on hardware innovation, Meta is positioning itself differently. The company is not primarily interested in hardware competition. Instead, it aims to create a robotics software platform that other businesses can license, analogous to how Google’s Android functions in the smartphone market. Bosworth emphasizes that “software is the bottleneck,” with aspirations that Meta’s robotics team—under the leadership of Marc Whitten—can develop groundbreaking solutions.

The initial focus for Meta’s robotics endeavors includes creating a “world model” that will enable robots to perform complex tasks, such as animating a dexterous hand. Reports indicate that, by February 2025, Meta might introduce a robot designed to assist with household chores, like cleaning and laundry.

This venture into robotics aligns Meta with other tech giants also exploring the robotic landscape. Apple is reportedly working on home robots, while Tesla continues to demo its Optimus robot in controlled environments. Although Meta has yet to achieve its ambitions with augmented reality glasses, the company seems determined to pour its resources into robotics, marking it as the next frontier.

As Meta embarks on this journey, it raises questions about the future of robotics in everyday life. Will you be welcoming a Meta robot into your home? Share your thoughts in the comments below!