Meta Develops Humanoid Robot with Fourier
According to The Information, Meta is working with Chinese robotics company Fourier to develop humanoid robot prototypes as part of its efforts to expand artificial intelligence (AI) beyond digital services and into physical environments. The first prototype, internally codenamed Max, was developed in approximately three months, while work on its second-generation version, Max 2, began in September 2026.
Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth reportedly views humanoid robots as physical extensions of the company's consumer AI assistant, Muse, with the goal of enabling AI to perform practical household tasks. Although Meta ultimately aims to develop a consumer-oriented product, no commercial launch timeline has been established.
Max Prototype Features NVIDIA Computing Technology
The first-generation Max stands approximately 1.5 meters tall and weighs around 48 kilograms. It uses NVIDIA's Jetson Thor chip as its computing platform and features five-finger robotic hands capable of handling small objects, along with facial expressions and built-in speakers.
Meta and Fourier also redesigned several hardware components, including the robot's body proportions, head, display, cameras, hands, and feet. The prototype is designed to recognize human voices, interpret gestures, maintain eye contact, and communicate its operating status to users.
Max 2 to Improve Dexterity and Mobility
Development of Max 2 started in September, with planned improvements to its torso structure and robotic hands to enhance manipulation accuracy. The next-generation prototype is also expected to feature a projector, additional sensors, and the ability to navigate stairs.
Meanwhile, Meta is recruiting engineering and product development personnel in Shanghai and Shenzhen to support prototype development, product planning, and potential mass production. However, the company acknowledged that limited access to certain components in the United States presents supply challenges.
Meta emphasized that its collaboration with Fourier remains focused on internal research and experimentation, with no current plans to sell the robots.
Meta Faces Growing Competition in Humanoid Robotics
Meta's humanoid robotics ambitions come amid growing competition from Chinese robotics companies and US technology firms. Tesla continues to advance its Optimus humanoid robot program, while startups such as Figure and 1X Technologies are also developing robots for household applications.
However, widespread adoption of humanoid robots in homes remains at an early stage. Meanwhile, Meta has also experienced leadership changes in its robotics division, with former Cruise CEO Marc Whitten leaving the company in August. Ning Li was subsequently appointed interim head of Meta Robotics Studio, reporting directly to Bosworth.
The development of Max and Max 2 highlights Meta's growing investment in embodied AI, as technology companies explore ways to bring intelligent systems into real-world environments.
