This week, a delightful moment unfolded at Nvidia’s GTC Berlin conference when CEO Jensen Huang showcased the charming Microducks—robotic ducks that captivated audiences with their playful antics. The performance led to a surge in preorders, surpassing 20,000 units within a day, as noted by Clem Delangue from Hugging Face.
Anticipated to be delivered just in time for Christmas, the Microducks are on track to become the must-have toy of the holiday season. Delangue has even suggested that these robots could emerge as the top-selling robotics item of the year, appealing not only to children but also to adults, as highlighted in the promotional materials that feature grown-ups enjoying the experience.
Produced by Pollen Robotics, now a part of Nvidia following its acquisition of Hugging Face in September 2025, the Microducks stand out due to their open-source framework. This makes them the second robotic creation from Hugging Face, following the equally endearing Reachy Mini.
Leveraging Nvidia’s advanced technology, the Microducks underwent simulations that programmed them with essential actions, such as walking and sitting. Additionally, owners have the option to teach their robots new tricks to share with fellow enthusiasts.
For those needing a break from the serious discussions around AI’s impact on cybersecurity, the video of these adorable robots in action serves as a refreshing antidote. While the AI sector faces scrutiny over various high-stakes challenges, the joy of the Microducks reaffirms that technology can also bring smiles.
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Editor’s Take
The introduction of the Microducks signifies a blend of entertainment and technology that could reshape how robotics are perceived in consumer markets. This development not only highlights the growing appeal of robotic toys but also emphasizes the potential for community engagement through their open-source nature. Such innovations may pave the way for further advancements and collaborations in the AI sector, enriching user experiences and opening new avenues for developers.
Source: techcrunch.com
