Google wants Intrinsic to be 'Android of robotics' as it pushes into physical AI

In folding its Intrinsic project into the main company and out of "Other Bets," Google is aiming to mimic its Android strategy for robots.

Google became a powerhouse in smartphones by creating the Android operating system and partnering with handset makers in need of an answer to Apple's iPhone. Now the search giant has a similar plan for tackling robotics.

Earlier this week, Google announced that Intrinsic, an internal robotics software project, will be moved from the "Other Bets" category into the main company.

Just as Android runs across phones and tablets from devices made by Samsung, Motorola, China's Xiaomi and others, Intrinsic does the same for robotic systems, though the partnering companies have far less recognizable names. They include FANUC, Universal Robots and KUKA, which all primarily focus on industrial robots. Prospective competitors include Amazon and Tesla.