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Google's DeepMind says it will use AI models to power physical robots

Google's DeepMind says it will use AI models to power physical robots

  • a day ago
  • nbcchicago.com
  • Keywords: AI, Robotics

Google’s DeepMind introduced new AI models to power physical robots, partnering with Apptronik to develop humanoid robots capable of tasks like plugging in devices and handling objects.

Alphabet Reports

Estimated market influence

Google DeepMind

Positive
Analyst rating: N/A

Google DeepMind is developing AI models for robotics, specifically Gemini 2.0, which powers robots to perform physical tasks.

Apptronik

Positive
Analyst rating: N/A

Partnership with Google DeepMind to build next-gen humanoid robots using Gemini 2.0 AI models.

Context

Analysis of Google DeepMind's AI-Powered Robotics Initiative

Key Announcements

  • Google DeepMind introduced two new AI models for robotics:
    • Gemini Robotics
    • Gemini Robotics-ER (Extended Reasoning)
  • Both models run on Gemini 2.0, described as Google's "most capable" AI to date.

Partnership and Development

  • Google partnered with Apptronik, a Texas-based robotics developer, to build humanoid robots using Gemini 2.0.
  • Apptronik has previously collaborated with NASA and received funding from Google in its $350 million funding round.

Capabilities Highlighted

  • Demonstrations showed Apptronik robots performing tasks like:
    • Plugging items into power strips
    • Filling lunchboxes
    • Moving objects (e.g., plastic vegetables)
    • Zipping bags in response to spoken commands.
  • Key qualities for AI models in robotics:
    • Generalization: Adaptability across different situations.
    • Interactivity: Ability to understand and respond to instructions or environmental changes.
    • Dexterity: Manipulation of objects similar to human hands.

Market Positioning

  • Gemini Robotics-ER is designed as a foundation for training custom models by roboticists.
  • Available to:
    • Apptronik
    • Trusted testers including Agile Robots, Agility Robots, Boston Dynamics, and Enchanted Tools.

Competitive Landscape

  • Google is not alone in AI-driven robotics:
    • OpenAI invested in a startup focused on "bringing general-purpose AI into the physical world."
    • Other notable players include Boston Dynamics and Agility Robotics.

Strategic Vision

  • Sundar Pichai, Google CEO, emphasized that robotics serves as a testing ground for translating AI advancements into real-world applications.
  • Robots will use multimodal AI models to adapt and make changes dynamically based on their surroundings.

Future Outlook

  • No specific timeline provided for commercial availability of the technology.
  • The initiative underscores Google's focus on advancing AI beyond digital applications into physical, practical uses.

Conclusion

Google's move signals a significant shift in AI development, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and real-world implementation. This could have long-term implications for industries requiring automation, manufacturing, and service robotics.