Google's DeepMind says it will use AI models to power physical robots
Google is bringing its DeepMind artificial intelligence technology models into the physical world to power robots. The company on Wednesday debuted two new AI models, Gemini Robotics and Gemini Robotics-ER (extended reasoning). They both run on Gemini 2.0, which Google calls its "most capable" AI to date. Gemini Robotics goes beyond outputs like text and images, where generative AI has thrived to date, and into physical action commands to control robots.
Partnership with Apptronik
Google said in a blog post that it will partner with Apptronik, a Texas-based robotics developer, to "build the next generation of humanoid robots with Gemini 2.0." Apptronik has worked with Nvidia and NASA in the past. The company said last month that Google joined in its $350 million funding round.
AI Capabilities for Robotics
In demonstration videos, Google showed Apptronik robots, equipped with the new AI models, performing various tasks in response to spoken commands. The company highlighted the importance of AI models for robotics to possess qualities such as being general, interactive, and dexterous.
Gemini Robotics-ER
Gemini Robotics-ER is designed specifically for roboticists to use as a foundation to train their own models. It's available to Apptronik as well as "trusted testers" including Agile Robots, Agility Robots, Boston Dynamics, and Enchanted Tools.
Industry Trends
Google is not the only player in the pursuit of AI for robotics. In November, OpenAI invested in Physical Intelligence, a startup focusing on integrating general-purpose AI into the physical world. OpenAI also made strategic hires in the robotics space to advance its efforts.
Tesla has also stepped into the humanoid robotics industry with the Optimus robot, highlighting the growing interest in AI-powered robotics across companies.
Future Outlook
Google CEO Sundar Pichai expressed the company's vision of using robotics as a testing ground for applying AI advancements in the physical world. Pichai emphasized the use of multimodal AI models to enable robots to adapt to changes in their environment.
