Meta Humanoid Robot Max 2 Targets Homes with Jetson Thor

The Meta humanoid robot initiative has officially entered its next phase, as Meta and Chinese robotics manufacturer Fourier launched the development of their second-generation prototype, Max 2, in September. Designed to bring embodied AI agents into domestic spaces, the project couples Meta's interaction models with Fourier's hardware engineering, though the platform remains an early internal research prototype without commercial pricing or an external release schedule.

Inside the First-Generation Max Prototype

According to a report from The Information, the two companies spent approximately three months assembling the first iteration, internally code-named Max. The initial build represents Meta's drive to ground its virtual AI models in physical environments capable of understanding and manipulating real-world objects.

Max incorporates a comprehensive hardware stack aimed at human-scale domestic interactions:

• Dimensions and Build: Stands approximately 1.5 meters tall and weighs around 48 kilograms.
• Compute Architecture: Powered by the Nvidia Jetson Thor computing platform running an independent motion-control software system.
• Manipulation and Expression: Equipped with five-finger dexterous hands capable of picking up small items like bottles and toys, integrated speakers, and a display faceplate that simulates human facial expressions.

Engineering Division and On-Site Collaboration

The partnership divides core responsibilities between software cognition and mechanical execution. Meta specifies perception frameworks and behavioral requirements tailored for residential settings, while Fourier supplies the foundational robotic chassis and direct engineering R&D support. Demonstrating the close technical integration, Meta's Vice President of Robot Products, Li-Chen Miller, spent nearly two months on-site at Fourier's Shanghai manufacturing facility to assist in assembling the prototype.

Meta privately demonstrated the functional Max unit to selected staff members during an internal robotics summit in late August before greenlighting the next iteration.

Max 2 Roadmap: Mobility and In-Home Interaction

With R&D for Max 2 underway since September, the engineering teams are focusing on addressing the mechanical and sensory limitations revealed during initial testing. The second-generation model will feature a redesigned torso structure, enhanced dexterous hand manipulation, an integrated projection system, and dedicated sensors engineered to assist with navigating stairs. These additions aim to significantly improve mobility and contextual communication in complex household environments as Meta continues to expand its specialized robotics engineering teams.

Given Meta's focus on domestic tasks and expressive interaction, how do you see multipurpose humanoid robots fitting into everyday home routines compared to single-purpose household appliances?