Nvidia has launched Groot N1, an open source AI foundation model tailored for humanoid robotics. Presented at the GTC 2025 conference, this model signifies a notable advancement in how robots engage with their surroundings.

Groot N1 expands upon Nvidia's Project Groot, which initially targeted industrial applications. However, Groot N1 widens its reach to include various humanoid robots, regardless of their design. This shift indicates a broader ambition for robotics, moving from specialized tasks to more versatile, human-like capabilities.

Central to Groot N1 is its dual-system architecture, inspired by human cognitive processes. This setup allows robots to process information at different speeds. The "slow-thinking" system helps the robot comprehend its environment and instructions, then devise suitable actions. Conversely, the "fast-thinking" system converts these plans into precise robotic movements, including intricate tasks involving multiple steps.

Nvidia is releasing Groot N1 as open source, providing simulation frameworks and blueprints for generating synthetic training data. This open approach encourages collaboration and aims to speed up developments in robotics.

Jensen Huang, Nvidia's CEO, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, "The age of generalist robotics is here." This reflects the growing interest in humanoid robots, which have gained considerable attention recently. Companies like X1, EngineAI and Figure amongst others are leading this effort, aiming to create robots that mimic human movements and capabilities. While significant challenges remain, the prospect of mass-produced humanoid robotic systems is more attainable than ever.

This development represents a substantial step forward in integrating robots into our daily lives, opening possibilities for humanoid robots to assist us in numerous ways.