Hugging Face has introduced a 3D-printed robotic arm with prices starting at $100

Hugging Face's new, affordable robotic arm expands robotics accessibility.

: Hugging Face has launched a new 3D-printed robotic arm called SO-101, with prices starting at $100. The arm improves upon the previous model, the SO-100, with faster assembly and enhanced motor functionality. Hugging Face collaborates with several partners including The Robot Studio and Seeed Studio, offering a versatile and programmable solution for AI developers. The company's acquisition of Pollen Robotics signifies a growing emphasis on robotics, aiming to further innovation in the field.

Hugging Face, with its reputation in the AI development sphere, has entered the gaming field of robotics by launching a new 3D-printed robotic arm called SO-101. This project represents a joint effort with The Robot Studio, WowRobo, Seeed Studio, and PartaBot, all of whom have expertise in robotics, hardware, and parts supply. The SO-101 is a successor to the previously successful SO-100 model. This robotic arm is designed for affordability and accessibility, with prices beginning at $100, making technology more reachable for budding AI developers.

The SO-101 features notable improvements over its predecessor. It is faster to assemble due to its streamlined design, and thanks to advanced motors, it experiences reduced friction, allowing it to support its own weight more effectively. These improvements ensure the arm is not only more durable but also easier to use for various tasks. The arm is equipped with a camera that aids in conducting tasks via reinforcement learning, a form of AI training that helps the device learn autonomously to perform specific tasks, such as sorting Lego blocks.

Hugging Face asserted that the reinforces learning capabilities of SO-101 are an excellent starting point for AI builders and developers interested in robotics. According to Clement Delangue from Hugging Face, the collaboration between Hugging Face and partners like The Robot Studio makes this project a standout, demonstrating Hugging Face's commitment to merging AI with hardware technologies. The arm serves as an ideal entry point for AI enthusiasts to explore the realm of robotics, enhancing their skill sets and opening new avenues for innovation.

Furthermore, Hugging Face's expansion into the robotics industry was bolstered by its acquisition of Pollen Robotics, a French-based robotics startup. Led by Remi Cadene, former engineer at Tesla Optimus, Pollen Robotics brings acclaimed expertise into Hugging Face's fold. Through this acquisition, Hugging Face aims to enhance the Reachy 2 humanoid robot and make its code accessible to developers for potential improvements. This strategic purchase underscores Hugging Face's growing ambition to broaden its impact and innovation within robotics.

To note, while the base price for SO-101 starts at $100, actual prices can vary from $100 to $500, depending on assembly requirements and tariffs, particularly those affecting imports from China. Therefore, users have the option to pay extra for fully assembled units that conform to import tariffs, thereby accommodating a wider range of consumer needs.

Sources: Hugging Face, The Robot Studio, WowRobo, Seeed Studio, PartaBot, Pollen Robotics

robotics