Meta is developing a humanoid robot, named Max, with the goal of integrating into domestic environments. This project arises in a scenario where Boston Dynamics is frequently associated with this type of robot.
According to information released by The Information, based on sources close to Meta, the Max robot would be about 1.5 meters tall and equipped with a head display capable of showing facial expressions. These sources also indicate that the work of Mark Zuckerberg's team is not isolated, as the development is taking place in collaboration with Fourier, a Chinese company specializing in robotics.
If the information is accurate, the Max project has reached an advanced stage of development. Meta employees spent approximately two months in China working side-by-side with Fourier, during which time they observed the materialization of a 1.5m robot weighing 48 kilograms and possessing five-fingered hands on each hand.
Max's ability to display facial expressions through its display suggests it was designed to interact with humans. This opens the possibility of the robot being used to perform specific tasks in homes, public spaces, or offices, as presumed.
Other elements reinforcing the idea of human interaction include the dexterity of the hands for handling small objects, the presence of five speakers on its body, and the fact that Max is built on the Jetson AGX Thor platform provided by Nvidia, which is aimed at humanoid robotics projects.
Additionally, rumors suggest that the project is progressing rapidly, to the point where a second model, named Max 2, is under development. This successor would have a redesigned upper body, enhanced hands, and sensors that would allow it to climb stairs.
It is important to note that no image of Max has been publicly released yet; the available photograph only serves as an illustration of Fourier's robots. The company itself has not confirmed details, stating that Max is an internal project, which makes its exact objectives uncertain.
Ultimately, Max may serve as a starting point for the advancement of other robotic technologies. It appears that Meta has a strong interest in definitively entering the humanoid robotics sector, especially after acquiring Assured Robot Intelligence (ARI) in May of this year, a startup focused specifically on this type of robotics.
