Hugging Face opens up orders for its Reachy Mini desktop robots

Hugging Face has officially opened orders for its innovative Reachy Mini desktop robots, inviting developers to dive into the world of robotics. Announced on Wednesday, this new offering follows the unveiling of prototypes earlier this year, alongside a larger humanoid robot named HopeJR. The company is introducing two distinct versions of the Reachy Mini. The Reachy Mini Wireless, priced at $449, operates on a Raspberry Pi 5 mini computer and is designed for untethered use. In contrast, the Reachy Mini Lite, available for $299, requires a connection to a computer but provides a more budget-friendly option. Both models are available as DIY kits, allowing developers to assemble them and bring their creations to life. About the size of a typical stuffed animal, these robots feature screens for eyes and antennas, offering a playful yet functional design. Once assembled, users can program the devices using Python, tapping into a suite of pre-installed demos. They are also integrated with the Hugging Face Hub, providing access to an extensive library of over 1.7 million AI models and more than 400,000 datasets. Clém Delangue, CEO of Hugging Face, shared insights into the development process, noting that feedback from initial testers influenced the decision to introduce two versions of the Reachy Mini. One tester reported that their child wanted to carry the robot around, prompting the company to consider the portability of their design. Delangue emphasized the company’s commitment to gathering user feedback as they continue to innovate. The target market for these desktop robots is AI developers, who are encouraged to code, build, and test AI applications directly on the Reachy Mini. Delangue expressed excitement about the potential for users to create unique features and applications, fostering a community-driven approach to innovation. "We hope this will unleash the creativity of builders, allowing them to share their applications with others," he stated. Shipping for the Reachy Mini Lite is expected to commence next month, with the wireless version following later this year. Delangue highlighted the importance of swift shipping to ensure users can start experimenting with their robots without delay. This launch aligns with Hugging Face’s broader vision for robotics—an emphasis on open-source hardware that empowers users with complete control over their devices. Delangue concluded with a thought-provoking perspective on the future of robotics, advocating for open-source solutions rather than proprietary, closed systems. He expressed concern about the implications of centralized control over robots, emphasizing the need for transparency and user empowerment in this rapidly evolving field.