Facebook’s parent company Meta is jumping into the world of AI-powered robots that look and act like humans. Think of them as digital assistants with arms, legs, and the ability to help around the house.

Meta isn’t just building one robot – they want to create the brain and technology that will power robots made by many different companies. It’s like how Google’s Android software runs on phones from Samsung, LG, and others. Meta wants to do the same thing for robots.

Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, is now planning a major leap into the world of AI-powered humanoid robots. These futuristic robots are designed to look and move like humans and could one day help with everyday household chores.

According to insiders, Meta is building a brand-new team within its Reality Labs division—the same team that creates devices like the Meta Quest VR headset and Ray-Ban smart glasses. This team will be led by Marc Whitten, who recently left his role at GM’s self-driving car unit, Cruise. He has also worked at Unity and Amazon in the past.

Meta’s first goal is to create robots that can handle simple household tasks—like folding clothes, carrying items, or loading a dishwasher. While today’s robots still struggle with these basic jobs, Meta believes that combining its AI expertise and its experience in AR/VR can change that.

The plan isn’t to launch a Meta-branded robot just yet. Instead, Meta wants to build the software, sensors, and tools that other companies can use to make their own robots. Think of how Google’s Android system became the foundation for many smartphones—that’s what Meta wants to be for robots.

Meta is already talking with robotics companies like Unitree and Figure AI about using their technology. The goal is to make Meta’s AI software the go-to choice for robot makers worldwide.

Why Robots, and Why Now?

Meta has already spent billions developing technologies for virtual and augmented reality. Now, they want to use those same tools—like hand tracking, low-power computing, and always-on sensors—to power robots.

Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, explained that this move fits naturally with Meta’s existing projects. He said, “The technologies we’ve built in AI and Reality Labs are perfect for robotics.” Meta plans to hire around 100 engineers for this effort in 2025.

Their ultimate goal is to become the main provider of AI platforms for robots, just like Qualcomm provides chips for smartphones.

What Makes Home Robots a Hard Challenge?

Unlike self-driving cars that navigate predictable roads, robots inside homes face more complicated environments. Every house is different—furniture, lighting, and clutter vary greatly. That makes building useful home robots a big challenge.

Meta believes its experience with virtual environments (like those used in VR headsets) gives it an edge in helping robots “see” and move better indoors.

The Company isn’t the only tech giant exploring humanoid robots. Companies like Tesla (with its Optimus robot), Apple, Google DeepMind, and Boston Dynamics are all investing in the future of robotics.

For example, Tesla plans to sell its Optimus robot for around $30,000 and has already started limited production. However, while many companies focus on using robots in factories or warehouses, Meta wants to bring robots into everyday homes.

Meta’s Long term Vision on Humanoid Robot

Meta is also thinking about robot safety—like preventing injuries or handling power outages. Their platform will include tools to make robots safer and more reliable, whether they’re helping in the kitchen or just moving around.

Even though robots like these are still a few years away, Meta believes now is the right time to invest. The company’s FAIR (Fundamental AI Research) group has been quietly studying robotics for months and will support this new initiative.

With an expected investment of $65 billion this year into AI and related technologies, Meta is going all-in. While we may not see a Meta robot in stores anytime soon, the company is preparing the tools and platforms to support a future where helpful, human-like robots are a part of everyday life.

In short, Meta wants to be the company that powers the robotic future of your home—even if someone else builds the robot itself.