Hugging Face Launches Orders for Open Source Reachy Mini Robots
Hugging Face Launches Orders for Open Source Reachy Mini Robots
Hugging Face, the renowned AI development platform, has officially opened orders for its new Reachy Mini desktop robots. Announced earlier this year, these compact, open source robots are designed specifically for developers eager to experiment with robotics and artificial intelligence in a hands-on, customizable way.
Two Reachy Mini Versions to Fit Developer Needs
Hugging Face is offering two distinct models:
- Reachy Mini Wireless: Completely wireless, powered by a Raspberry Pi 5 mini computer. Price: $449.
- Reachy Mini Lite: Requires connection to an external computing source, making it more affordable at $299.
Both versions are delivered as kits, inviting developers to assemble their own robots. The Reachy Mini is roughly the size of a plush toy, featuring two expressive screen "eyes" and a pair of antennas for added charm.
Open Source and Fully Programmable
True to Hugging Face's commitment to open source, the Reachy Mini is fully programmable using Python. Each robot comes with pre-installed demo applications and deep integration with the Hugging Face Hub, granting access to over 1.7 million AI models and more than 400,000 datasets. This makes it a versatile playground for AI developers looking to build, test, and share their own robotics projects.
Developer-Centric Design Inspired by Community Feedback
Clém Delangue, CEO of Hugging Face, explained that the decision to offer two Reachy Mini versions was driven by real user feedback. During early testing, a developer’s young daughter expressed a desire to carry the robot around the house, prompting the team to prioritize portability and flexibility. Delangue emphasized that ongoing feedback will continue shaping the Reachy Mini's evolution, in line with Hugging Face's open source ethos.
Shipping Timeline and Company Vision
The Reachy Mini Lite is expected to begin shipping as soon as next month, while the Wireless version will follow later in the year. Hugging Face aims to deliver quickly, ensuring developers can start building without lengthy waits. Delangue stressed the importance of open source robotics, advocating for systems that give users full control rather than locking them into proprietary "black boxes."
Unleashing Creativity in Robotics
The Reachy Mini series targets AI developers who want to build, customize, and share their own robotic applications. As Delangue noted, the hope is to foster a vibrant community where developers create and exchange countless features and apps, empowering anyone to "plug and play" with new ideas.
Getting Started
Developers interested in experimenting with programmable robotics can place orders directly through Hugging Face’s platform. With a focus on openness, customizability, and rapid access to a vast AI ecosystem, the Reachy Mini positions itself as an accessible entry point for the next generation of robotics innovation.
