Hugging Face's new duck robot is selling fast. A Chinese chip powers it

Hugging Face's French subsidiary, Pollen Robotics, has launched the "Microduck," a new AI robot that has sold more than 10,000 units since its release on Thursday. The Microduck is a colorful, one-eyed robot that stands just under 10 inches tall and is available for preorder at a price of $399. Customers can choose from four color options: cream, graphite, lavender, and sky blue. Pollen Robotics plans to start shipping the Microduck "before Christmas 2026." The Microduck is designed with various interactive features, which have been showcased in video demonstrations. It can perform tasks such as picking up socks and markers, kicking around a ball, and skating on tiny rollerskates. The robot is also capable of reacting to its surroundings, following a laser pointer, or being controlled via a game controller. These functionalities highlight the Microduck's potential as both a companion and a tool for developers interested in robotics. An important aspect of the Microduck is its open-source software, which allows developers to train and customize the robot at home right out of the box. This emphasis on open-source capabilities positions the Microduck as an appealing option for those interested in robotics and AI technology. The combination of its playful design and interactive capabilities makes it a unique offering in the growing market of AI-driven robotic companions.