Nvidia has officially launched its latest robotics chip, the Jetson AGX Thor, marking a significant advancement in the field of artificial intelligence and robotics. The developer kit is priced at $3,499 and will begin shipping next month. Nvidia positions the Thor as a powerful “robot brain,” capable of handling the complex computations required for advanced robotic functions. The chip’s architecture leverages Nvidia’s Blackwell graphics processor, the same technology powering its AI and gaming chips, resulting in a significant performance boost. Compared to its predecessor, the Jetson AGX Thor is 7.5 times faster, allowing it to seamlessly run large generative AI models, including those for language processing and visual interpretation crucial for sophisticated robotic tasks. The 128GB of memory ensures ample capacity for these demanding AI models.
For companies ready for mass production, Nvidia offers the Thor T5000 module, priced at $2,999 per unit. Bulk discounts are available for orders exceeding 1,000 units. This tiered pricing structure caters to both prototyping and large-scale manufacturing needs. Nvidia’s commitment to robotics is evident in its strategic investments and collaborations. Major players such as Agility Robotics, Amazon, Meta, and Boston Dynamics are already utilizing Nvidia’s Jetson chips, demonstrating the technology’s broad adoption within the industry. Nvidia has also actively invested in various robotics companies, further solidifying its position in this rapidly evolving sector.
While robotics currently represents a relatively small portion (approximately 1%) of Nvidia’s overall revenue, its growth trajectory is impressive. Nvidia’s recent consolidation of its automotive and robotics divisions into a single business unit reflects the company’s strategic emphasis on this sector. The combined unit reported a remarkable 72% year-on-year sales increase, reaching $567 million in quarterly revenue in May. This growth underscores the immense potential of the robotics market and Nvidia’s proactive role in shaping its future.
The versatility of the Jetson AGX Thor extends beyond robotics, with applications also found in the automotive industry, particularly within the burgeoning Chinese self-driving car market. Although similar to its robotics counterparts, Nvidia’s Drive AGX chips for automotive applications run a specialized Drive OS tailored for the unique demands of the automotive sector. The Jetson AGX Thor’s release reinforces Nvidia’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology for the robotics and AI industries, further fueling innovation and growth in these dynamic fields.
