Hugging Face, widely recognized for its AI developer platform, has introduced a new programmable, 3D-printable robotic arm capable of performing basic tasks such as picking up and placing objects.
Named the SO-101, this model is the successor to last year’s SO-100, which launched at an affordable price point of around $100. The SO-101 was developed by Hugging Face’s robotics division, LeRobot, in collaboration with French robotics company The Robot Studio. The project also involved partnerships with robotics retailer WowRobo, IoT hardware provider Seeed Studio, and component supplier PartaBot.
The SO-101, priced similarly to its predecessor at $100, offers several key upgrades over the SO-100. It boasts a quicker assembly process and enhanced motors that minimize friction while enabling the arm to support its own weight more effectively. A built-in camera adds to its functionality, allowing the arm to be trained using reinforcement learning—a type of AI that helps it “learn” how to carry out tasks such as picking up Lego blocks and placing them into bins.
To clarify, the SO-101 robotic arm starts at a base price of $100, but final costs can range up to $500 depending on the supplier, build options, and added premiums such as full assembly and U.S. import tariffs on Chinese components.
Hugging Face is significantly ramping up its robotics ambitions. The company recently acquired French robotics startup Pollen Robotics for an undisclosed sum. With former Tesla Optimus engineer Remi Cadene now leading its robotics division, Hugging Face plans to commercialize Pollen’s humanoid robot, Reachy 2. In line with its open-source ethos, the company will also make Reachy 2’s code available for developers to download, test, and improve.
