Hugging Face Launches $100 3D-Printed Robotic Arm
Hugging Face has unveiled an affordable, programmable robotic arm designed for makers and developers. The SO-101, priced starting at just $100, builds on the success of its predecessor, the SO-100, with faster assembly and upgraded motors for smoother operation. This 3D-printable robotic arm can handle basic tasks like object manipulation and is compatible with AI-driven training methods, including reinforcement learning.
Developed in collaboration with The Robot Studio, Wowrobo, Seeedstudio, and Partabot, the SO-101 features enhanced mechanics that reduce friction while supporting its own weight. A built-in camera enables users to train the arm for specific actions, such as sorting Lego bricks into containers. While the base model remains budget-friendly, fully assembled versions and import tariffs can push the price up to $500 depending on the supplier.
The launch aligns with Hugging Face’s growing focus on robotics, following its recent acquisition of Pollen Robotics, a French startup specializing in humanoid robots. Under the leadership of former Tesla engineer Remi Cadene, the company aims to expand its robotics ecosystem by offering Pollen’s Reachy 2 platform to developers, encouraging open-source improvements. This move signals Hugging Face’s ambition to bridge AI and robotics, making advanced automation more accessible to hobbyists and professionals alike.
(Source: TechCrunch)
