Meta Aims to Revolutionize Robotics with Android-Like Metabot Software Play

Meta Aims to Become Android of Robotics with Metabot Software Focus Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is reportedly exploring a new frontier: robotics. According to sources, Meta wants to create software that can be licensed by other companies, much like Google's Android operating system for mobile devices. The effort, dubbed "Project Orion," has been in development since at least 2025, when Meta was researching the possibility of building a robot that could handle household chores such as cleaning and folding laundry. The project is led by Marc Whitten, former CEO of Cruise, and his team at Superintelligence Labs. "We're not just trying to build a robot," said Andrew Bosworth, Meta's Chief Technology Officer, in an interview with Sources' Alex Heath. "We're trying to create software that can be used by other companies to build their own robots." Bosworth emphasized the importance of software in robotics development, stating that it is currently the "bottleneck" holding back progress. By creating a comprehensive world model that can simulate complex movements and tasks, Meta hopes to overcome this challenge. The Metabot project aims to provide a standardized platform for robotics companies to build upon, much like Android did for mobile device manufacturers. This would enable developers to create robots with ease, without having to reinvent the wheel. Meta's focus on software rather than hardware is a departure from other tech giants such as Apple and Tesla, which have invested heavily in building their own robotic products. However, by licensing its software, Meta can potentially tap into a vast market of robotics companies looking for efficient solutions. While details about the project are still scarce, industry experts believe that Meta's entry into robotics could be a game-changer. "Meta has the resources and expertise to make a significant impact in the field," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a robotics expert at Stanford University. "If they can deliver on their promise of creating software that's easy to use and integrate, it could revolutionize the industry." As for next developments, Meta is reportedly working on developing a world model that can simulate complex movements and tasks. This would be a significant milestone in the project's timeline, marking a major breakthrough in robotics development. Meta's push into robotics raises questions about its long-term goals and potential applications. While some speculate that the company may be eyeing the lucrative market of service robots, others believe it could be exploring more ambitious projects such as autonomous vehicles or even humanoid robots. One thing is certain: Meta's foray into robotics has sent shockwaves through the industry, with many experts predicting a significant shift in the way companies approach robotics development. As the project continues to unfold, one thing remains clear: Meta is serious about becoming a major player in the world of robotics. *Reporting by Engadget.*