Nvidia has introduced new software that makes it easier for humanoid robots to navigate their surroundings. The company’s CEO, Huang, mentioned that there is less than five years until the extensive use of robots. Technology giant Nvidia unveiled Groot N1 at the GTC 2025 event, a groundbreaking artificial intelligence base model specifically designed for humanoid robotics. This new model aims to enhance the versatility of artificial intelligence in industrial and personal robotic applications. Groot N1 stands out with its innovative “fast and slow thinking” system architecture. In this architecture, the fast thinking system gives robots the ability to provide reflexive and instant responses. On the other hand, the slow thinking system allows robots to analyze the environment in more complex tasks and make more strategic decisions. This enables robots to both move quickly and develop a more detailed understanding of situations tailored to their needs. FAST THINKING SYSTEM This system allows robots to provide reflexive and instant responses. Robots equipped with this system can quickly perceive and change direction when faced with a sudden obstacle while walking. They can adjust their grip strength instantly to prevent an object from slipping while holding it or make reflexive movements such as quickly retreating when liquid is poured onto them. The new system enables the robot to quickly adapt to environmental changes and generally operates with low energy consumption. SLOW THINKING SYSTEM This system is developed for robots to make more complex, methodical decisions. This gives humanoid robots features like task planning and environmental perception. For example, when you instruct a robot with the slow thinking system of Groot N1 to clean up your room, it scans the surrounding area and creates a detailed map of the room first, then analyzes the most efficient way to organize objects and completes the task. The slow thinking system allows robots to perform tasks involving multiple steps. It requires more processing power and energy, but enables the robot to act more consciously and strategically. EXAMPLES OF COLLABORATION These two systems usually work together in an integrated manner. A robot can grasp an object with the fast thinking system and then decide where to place it with the slow thinking system. In a production line, the fast thinking system can identify and separate defective products, while the slow thinking system can analyze general problems in the production process. The fast and slow thinking systems were inspired by Nobel Prize winner Daniel Kahneman’s “System 1 and System 2” theories about the human mind. The Groot N1 artificial intelligence model adapts this theory to the field of robotics, enabling humanoid robots to work more naturally and effectively. INVESTMENT IN OPEN SOURCE Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang described Groot N1 as the “beginning of the era of general robotics.” The company not only introduces Groot N1 but also releases open-source synthetic data sets and simulation frameworks that researchers and developers can use to develop their applications. This creates significant collaboration potential for the industry. WIDE-RANGING USE CASES Groot N1 promises a wide range of applications for humanoid robots, from home automation to healthcare services, industrial manufacturing to the logistics sector. Nvidia offers flexibility to ensure that the model is not only tailored to a specific robot but also compatible with different types of humanoid robots. “THE ROBOT REVOLUTION IS NEAR” Huang expressed his belief that there is less than five years until humanoid robots are extensively used in manufacturing facilities. Huang stated that robots should primarily be in factories, as the safety rules in factory environments are clear, and the purposes of use are well defined. He also added that the estimated cost of renting a humanoid robot could be around $100,000.