Meta is partnering with GelSight, a firm specializing in sensor technology, and South Korean robotics company Wonik Robotics to develop advanced tactile sensors for artificial intelligence applications. These devices, intended for scientific rather than consumer use, aim to support research that enables AI to gain a deeper understanding of 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 new version of Meta's original Digit sensor features multimodal sensing, powered by an on-device AI chip with 18 distinct sensors that can perceive subtle changes in an environment. This innovation captures touch signals with high precision, enabling it to detect vibrations, heat, and even odors, thanks to a custom optical system that can observe 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, encouraging experimentation with this advanced technology to explore its applications in AI research.
Meta is also working with Wonik Robotics on the Allegro Hand, a next-generation robotic hand that incorporates tactile sensors similar to those in the Digit 360. The Allegro Hand, built on Meta's robotics platform, features specialized control boards that transmit tactile sensor data to a connected computer, allowing precise modeling of physical interactions. This new robotic hand will also be available for purchase next year, offering researchers tools to explore enhanced sensory input in AI-driven robotics.
