Meta has started to show its game in robotics. What it seeks is clear: to be the Android of robots thanks to software

Meta, the tech giant, is making a significant move into the world of humanoid robotics, with a focus on software development. This strategic shift aims to position the company as a dominant player in the rapidly evolving robotics sector, potentially replicating the success of Google's Android operating system in the smartphone market. This development has substantial implications for Europe's future digital landscape and its aspirations for technological sovereignty. Unlike rivals prioritizing hardware, Meta is prioritizing the creation of robust and adaptable software. This includes developing tools and platforms that other robotics companies could potentially integrate into their own hardware designs. This approach, as highlighted by Meta's CTO, is intended to provide a unified software ecosystem, thereby establishing a significant foothold in the robotics industry. This software-centric strategy could impact numerous European businesses and consumers. European companies reliant on robotics for manufacturing, logistics, or healthcare could face increased dependence on a single, potentially non-European, software provider. This situation raises concerns about data privacy, platform lock-in, and the need for European alternatives in this critical technology area. The move underscores the importance of fostering European-led innovation in robotics. Investing in the development of open-source robotics software and promoting interoperability are essential steps toward safeguarding digital autonomy and empowering European businesses to compete in this crucial future market.