Meta Builds Humanoid Robot Prototype with China's Fourier, Begins Work on Second Version

Oct. 31, 2026 -Meta Platforms has built a humanoid robot prototype with Chinese robotics company Fourier and started developing a second version, The Information reported Oct. 31, citing people familiar with the project. 

The prototype, internally named Max, stands about 1.5 meters tall and weighs approximately 48 kilograms. The companies reportedly developed it in three months, with Meta's robotics team working alongside Fourier engineers at the Chinese company's Shanghai facility. 

According to The Information, Max uses Nvidia's Jetson Thor computing platform and has five-fingered hands, built-in speakers and a display capable of mimicking facial expressions. The robot can reportedly pick up small objects, including bottles and toys. 

Development of a second prototype, Max 2, began in September. The updated version is expected to have a redesigned torso, improved hands, a projector and additional sensors intended to help it navigate stairs, the report said. 

Meta told The Information that its collaboration with Fourier is focused on internal research and experimentation and that it has no plans to sell the prototype units. 

The project is part of Meta's broader effort to develop robotics technology for potential household applications. The company has also expanded its robotics capabilities through its acquisition of Assured Robot Intelligence, a startup working on AI models that help robots understand and respond to human behavior. 

The reported partnership also illustrates Meta's reliance on an established Chinese robotics manufacturer to accelerate hardware development. However, the prototype should not be confused with a commercially available humanoid product. 

So far, Meta has not announced a launch date or confirmed plans to sell a humanoid robot.