Earlier this morning Patently Apple posted a report titled "Apple is working with Carnegie Mellon University on a new system known as 'ARMOR' that assists humanoid robots see their surroundings better." Robotics is going to be a new AI trend. The Financial Times is now reporting that Nvidia is eyeing robotics as a key growth area.

The US company plans to launch its next generation of compact computers for humanoid robots, Jetson Thor, in early 2025.

Speaking to FT, Nvidia vice-president of robotics Deepu Talla said: “The ChatGPT moment for physical AI and robotics is around the corner.”

Talla added that he believes the robotics market has reached a “tipping point.”

Nvidia offers a comprehensive solution, from AI training software to the chips powering robots.

Talla noted that two technological breakthroughs are propelling the robotics market: generative AI models and training robots using simulated environments.

The ability to train robots in virtual environments addresses the “Sim-to-Real gap,” ensuring effective real-world operation, he added.

Talla said: “In the past 12 months . . . [this gap] has matured sufficiently that we can now carry out experiments in simulation, combining with generative AI, that we could not do just two years ago."

In a nutshell, Nvidia's Jetson Thor is a next-generation compact computer designed for AI-powered humanoid robots, set to be launched in the first half of 2025. Here are some key features:

• Advanced AI Processing: Jetson Thor will feature powerful AI processing capabilities in a small, energy-efficient package.
• Real-Time Object Recognition: It will enable robots to perform complex tasks such as real-time object recognition and natural language processing.
• Autonomous Navigation: The system will support autonomous navigation, allowing robots to move and operate independently in various environments.
• Generative AI Integration: Jetson Thor will leverage generative AI models and simulation technology to train robots more effectively.
• End-to-End Ecosystem: Nvidia aims to provide a comprehensive ecosystem, from AI training software to the chips that power robotic systems, facilitating seamless robot design, training, and deployment.

Nvidia's move into robotics with Jetson Thor is seen as a significant step towards advancing physical AI and robotics, similar to the impact of generative AI models like ChatGPT.

Disclosure: The owner of Patently Apple holds Nvidia Stock