Googles Next Big Bet Robotics AI
Alphabet's Expanding Horizons into Robotics
Alphabet’s (NASDAQ:GOOGL) remit stretches far and wide, with Google’s parent company’s businesses running the gamut from search, YouTube, and Android to cloud computing, hardware, and autonomous driving. However, a less discussed but potentially transformative area for the tech giant is robotics.
The Dawn of a "ChatGPT Moment" for Robots
Following the recent CVPR (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition) Conference, Baird analyst Colin Sebastian highlighted a significant emerging opportunity in robotics that investors should note. Sebastian, a 5-star analyst, explained, "Google/DeepMind are developing a Robotics AI software stack that can power a wide variety of physical form factors through perception, reasoning, and action." He believes that as physical AI reaches an inflection point, Google is well-positioned to become a leading robotics AI platform, tapping into what some estimate will be a market exceeding $100 billion.
Introducing Gemini Robotics: A Versatile AI Platform
Google presented its vision for a "broader robotics platform" centered around its Gemini Robotics AI software stack. This system is engineered to support various physical robots capable of understanding language, interpreting visual information, and executing complex tasks. Unlike current robots typically programmed for specific, repetitive functions, the next generation aims for far greater intelligence. Sebastian describes this upcoming shift as the "’ChatGPT moment’ for robots."
The opportunity is so substantial that Sebastian believes Google’s Gemini ER (embodied reasoning) could lay the groundwork for widespread adoption of physical AI. This could potentially unlock a major long-term revenue stream comparable to Alphabet's Android and Cloud platforms.
Generalist Intelligence: The Key to Real-World Interaction
A crucial aspect is that agents powered by Gemini possess "generalist intelligence." This allows them to adapt to different hardware formats and perform a diverse range of tasks. Demonstrations have showcased their ability to handle intricate activities like folding origami and practical tasks such as locating a pair of glasses. "We believe this represents an important step forward as robots interact in the ‘real world’ without being limited to very specific pre-trained tasks (e.g., loading boxes on a shelf)," Sebastian commented.
Alphabet: A Key Enabler in the Robotics Revolution
OpenAI’s Sam Altman recently suggested that humanoid robots could become commonplace within the next five to ten years. With Gemini Robotics, Sebastian suggests Google is not merely participating but is positioning itself as a potential "key enabler" of this transformation. This places Google in direct competition with industry players like OpenAI, Tesla, Amazon, and Meta. "As such," Sebastian concluded, "we see intelligent robotics as another potential ‘option value’ for Alphabet given the large scale opportunity unlocked from embodied AI, cross-platform agentic models, and a new robotics TAM."
Analyst Outlook and Market Sentiment
Reflecting this positive outlook, Sebastian maintained an Outperform (i.e., Buy) rating on GOOGL shares, setting a $190 price target. This suggests a potential upside of 9.5% from current levels. (To watch Sebastian’s track record, click here).
Sebastian's view is largely echoed by his peers; based on a mix of 29 Buys and 9 Holds, the analyst consensus rates the stock a Strong Buy. At $199.11, the average target factors in 12-month returns of 15%. (See Alphabet stock forecast).
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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analyst. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
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