Meta Builds Humanoid Robot Prototype With Fourier

Meta has built a humanoid robot prototype with Shanghai-based robotics company Fourier and begun work on a second version, according to a report citing people familiar with the project. The robot, known internally as Max, was developed in about three months, the report said. The account has not been independently verified, and neither company has publicly confirmed the project in the reports reviewed. Meta told The Information that its work with Fourier is for internal research and experimentation and that it has no plans to sell the units. The report said Meta has not set a launch date for a mass-market humanoid product, distinguishing the prototypes from a planned consumer release. Work on a second prototype, Max 2, began in September, according to the same account. The new version is expected to have a redesigned torso, improved hands, a projector and additional sensors intended to help it navigate stairs. The reports did not provide a schedule for completing the second prototype. The first Max prototype was described as about 1.5 meters tall and weighing roughly 48 kilograms. It reportedly has a screen capable of displaying facial expressions, speakers and hands designed...