Meta, the technology giant behind Facebook and Instagram, is venturing into the world of robotics with the formation of a new team within its Reality Labs hardware division. According to a report by Bloomberg, the team will focus on developing humanoid robotics hardware that can perform household chores, marking a significant expansion of Meta's ambitions in the field of artificial intelligence.

The new robotics group will be led by Marc Whitten, a veteran technology executive with a background in driverless cars, having previously served as the CEO of Cruise, a startup acquired by General Motors. Whitten's diverse experience, which includes stints at Amazon, Microsoft, and Sonos, will likely prove invaluable in guiding Meta's robotics efforts.

Notably, Meta's plan is not to build a Meta-branded robot, at least not initially. Instead, the company aims to create a hardware foundation for the rest of the robotics market, similar to what Google achieved with its Android operating system in the smartphone sector. This approach could potentially establish Meta as a key player in the robotics industry, providing a platform for other companies to build upon.

As part of its robotics push, Meta has reportedly entered into discussions with several companies, including Unitree Robotics and Figure AI, to explore potential partnerships on prototype development. This collaborative approach could accelerate the development of Meta's robotics technology and provide opportunities for innovation and knowledge sharing.

The formation of Meta's robotics team and its plans for the industry have significant implications for the future of artificial intelligence and automation. As robots become increasingly capable of performing complex tasks, they have the potential to transform industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. Meta's entry into the robotics market could also spur further innovation and investment in the field, driving progress towards a future where robots and humans can work together seamlessly.

In conclusion, Meta's foray into robotics marks an exciting development in the field of artificial intelligence, with the potential to drive significant innovation and growth. As the company continues to build its robotics team and develop its technology, it will be interesting to see how its plans unfold and the impact they have on the industry as a whole.