Meta partners with GelSight and Wonik Robotics to develop advanced tactile sensors for AI applications. These sensors are intended for scientific research to help AI better understand physical interactions in the real world.
A key outcome of this collaboration is the Digit 360, an enhanced tactile sensor described by Meta as a fingertip sensor with capabilities similar to human touch. This version features multimodal sensing, powered by an on-device AI chip with 18 sensors that can perceive subtle environmental changes. It can detect vibrations, heat, and odors through a custom optical system that observes deformations on the fingertip surface from various angles.
Digit 360 is expected to be available next year, and Meta has invited researchers to apply for early access to explore its applications in AI research.
Meta is also working with Wonik Robotics on the Allegro Hand, a next-generation robotic hand with tactile sensors similar to those in Digit 360. Built on Meta's robotics platform, it features control boards that transmit tactile data to a computer for precise modeling of physical interactions. The Allegro Hand will also be available next year, providing researchers with tools to enhance sensory input in AI-driven robotics.
