Hugging Face has introduced the Microduck, an adorable duck-shaped robot priced at $399, which is expected to ship before Christmas. Clem Delangue, CEO of Hugging Face, described the Microduck as an open-source robot designed for users to teach new tricks through reinforcement learning. Despite its small 25-centimeter stature, this robot is capable of waddling, picking up objects with its beak, recovering itself after falling, crouching, and even roller skating, embodying a step toward affordable, open-source physical AI.

The Microduck builds on Hugging Face’s robotics efforts following its acquisition of French startup Pollen Robotics in April 2025. Alongside the earlier release of Reachy Mini robots, Hugging Face is expanding its product lineup with hardware designed to integrate full AI capabilities. The Microduck is equipped with cameras, lidar sensors, and inertial measurement units, allowing it to perceive its environment and learn robot behaviors that can be trained in simulation and updated live. Hugging Face offers an SDK, simulation tools, and reinforcement learning training stacks openly on GitHub, emphasizing transparency and customization.

Privacy concerns around robots with cameras in personal spaces were addressed by Delangue, who highlighted the security benefits of open-source models over opaque systems controlled by a few companies. While open source offers auditability and user control, it does not entirely eliminate risks, particularly when third-party software applications access the robot’s sensors. The company continues to advocate for user empowerment and privacy in AI-enabled devices despite these challenges.

This launch coincides with significant corporate developments as Hugging Face is reportedly on the verge of a $13 billion acquisition by Nvidia. The two companies have collaborated for years, with Nvidia supporting infrastructure needs and jointly promoting open-source AI innovation. Hugging Face also recently attracted media attention due to a cybersecurity incident involving OpenAI, underscoring the complexities and security considerations inherent in developing and deploying open AI systems.