Miko maker Inner Sky Labs launches foundation models for physical AI

AI startup Inner Sky Labs, known for its Miko-branded companion robots for children, has unveiled a suite of foundation models designed for physical AI applications. Inc42 reported the launch, positioning the models as tools to enable robots to interact with and navigate real-world environments.

The announcement follows a wave of recent activity in physical AI, including AMD’s acquisition of World Labs, Visko’s real-time AI world model, and Zenithon’s seed funding for robotics-focused AI. Unlike some efforts that may still be in earlier stages, Inner Sky Labs’ models are tied to an existing product line, suggesting a push toward practical deployment.

This shift reflects broader questions about the viability of consumer robotics, a category that has seen mixed success despite sustained investor interest. Some players in the space have faced challenges in demonstrating clear value propositions, particularly when compared to software-based alternatives. Inner Sky Labs’ approach—integrating foundation models into physical devices—represents one strategy to address these challenges.

The launch also highlights a tension in the physical AI space: whether progress will come from startups building end-to-end systems or from incumbents like AMD integrating acquired research into broader hardware plays. For now, Inner Sky Labs appears to be pursuing both paths, leveraging its existing product base while positioning itself as a platform player.

Sources: inc42.com