Nvidia is set to spread its reach into robotics in 2025, introducing the first batch of a next generation of tiny computers especially designed for humanoid robots, branded Jetson Thor. As reported by the Financial Times, it is part of the long-term vision of Nvidia providing technology that runs robots, not making them, like Tesla. Instead, Nvidia intends to back the “hundreds of thousands” of robot manufacturers across the globe by providing vital OEM solutions, as stated by Deepu Talla, Nvidia’s vice president of robotics.
This shift in timing is driven by two major breakthroughs: the introduction of generative AI models and the ability to train robots entirely in simulation. Such advancements open avenues toward much more powerful and efficient robotics, and Nvidia has a unique opportunity to be positioned as a critical enabler of the next generation of humanoid robots.
However, this foray into AI-driven robotics is happening when the company’s biggest clients like Amazon and Google are working at an aggressive pace to significantly reduce their reliance on Nvidia’s AI chips by developing their alternatives. Yet, Nvidia seems to be focusing on core foundational technologies for robotics; even companies like Tesla seem to be using Nvidia’s tech for its humanoid robot Optimus.
Nvidia is better placed to be one of the significant players in the industry for robotics, given it has just launched Jetson Thor, providing the necessary hardware and tools that will help power the next-generation humanoid robots.
