Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook and Instagram, is venturing into the humanoid robotics market, according to a report by Bloomberg. The company plans to develop the artificial intelligence, sensors, and software for humanoid robots, which will be manufactured and sold by various companies. This move marks a significant expansion of Meta's capabilities in AI and mixed reality.

The project is being led by Marc Whitten, the former CEO of GM's now-abandoned robotaxi experiment Cruise, who has also held executive positions at Microsoft, Sonos, Unity, and Amazon. Whitten will head a newly formed team within Meta's Reality Labs division, which will initially focus on creating "humanoid robot hardware" capable of performing household chores.

Meta's goal is to create a comprehensive platform that will enable the development of advanced robots, rather than manufacturing its own branded robots. The company is already in discussions with robotics companies like Unitree Robotics and Figure AI to explore potential partnerships. This approach will allow Meta to expand its AI and mixed reality capabilities, while also providing a foundation for other companies to build upon.

This move is not surprising, given the growing interest in robotics among tech giants. Tesla has already showcased its own humanoid robots, while Apple has been exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its future smart home ecosystem. Nvidia also has ambitious plans for the future of robotics. Meta's entry into the market is likely to accelerate innovation and advancements in the field.

Andrew Bosworth, Meta's chief technology officer, emphasized the complementary nature of robotics to the company's existing investments in AI and mixed reality. "The core technologies we've already invested in and built across Reality Labs and AI are complementary to developing the advancements needed for robotics," Bosworth wrote in a memo seen by Bloomberg. "We believe that expanding our portfolio to invest in this field will only accrue value to Meta AI and our mixed and augmented reality programs."

Meta's foray into robotics is part of its broader $65 billion investment in AI. The company is also ramping up its efforts to sell its smart glasses, having hired John Koryl, the former CEO of The RealReal, as its vice president of retail. As the tech industry continues to evolve, Meta's entry into the humanoid robotics market is likely to have significant implications for the future of AI, mixed reality, and beyond.