Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META, ETR:FB2A, SWX:FB) is launching a new division within its Reality Labs unit to develop AI-powered humanoid robots capable of assisting with physical tasks, according to an internal memo viewed by Reuters on Friday.
The Facebook parent company joins a growing field of humanoid robotics competitors, including Nvidia-backed Figure AI and Tesla, as advanced AI models fuel innovation in robotics and automation.
Meta’s Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth said in the memo that the robotics group will focus on research and development of “consumer humanoid robots” designed to maximize the capabilities of Meta’s Llama AI platform.
Leading the initiative is Marc Whitten, former CEO of self-driving car company Cruise, whom Meta has hired as vice president of robotics, Bosworth said.
Meta has also hired John Koryl, ex-CEO of e-commerce firm The RealReal, as vice president of retail to drive direct sales of Meta’s Quest headsets and AI-powered wearables like Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
The move marks a major bet on Reality Labs, which lost $5 billion in the fourth quarter of last year. Meta plans to develop humanoid robot hardware targeting household tasks while creating AI systems that can power robots built by other companies.
Shares of Meta finished 1.1% higher on Friday, its 20th straight day of gains.