The Hugging Face Microduck is a $399 open-source AI robot designed to democratize physical artificial intelligence through reinforcement learning, featuring a 25-centimeter-tall bipedal frame that can roller-skate, pick up objects weighing up to 800 grams, and ship before the holidays, according to Hugging Face CEO Clem Delangue.
Understanding the Microduck Hardware and Capabilities
The machine perceives its environment using an onboard camera, lidar sensors, and two inertial measurement units (IMUs) that track movement. Developed by French startup Pollen Robotics—which was acquired by Hugging Face in April 2025—the device features articulated legs, a head, and a neck.
Video demonstrations show the robot kicking balls, zipping around on tiny roller-skates, and gripping items like markers and socks with its beak. Additionally, Pollen Robotics stated that the robot generates a unique audio identity the first time it wakes up, communicating through creature-like sounds rather than a traditional assistant voice.
Open-Source Training and Software Stack
Developers can train the Microduck’s behaviors in simulation and deploy them directly to the hardware using an open-source software development kit (SDK) and reinforcement learning training stack hosted on GitHub, as detailed by Pollen Robotics. Users can continually fine-tune, retrain, and redeploy models, allowing the robot to learn new tricks over time. Owners can also operate the device manually using a standard game controller or program it to follow a laser pointer.
https://x.com/ClementDelangue/status/2092931447644442635
Pro Tip for Developers: You can simulate reinforcement learning policies before deployment to hardware, reducing physical wear and tear on the servos during the training phase.
Pricing and Ecosystem Context
Pollen Robotics offers the Microduck in cream, graphite, lavender, and sky blue for a pre-order price of $399. This hardware joins the company’s existing desktop lineup, which includes the $499 Raspberry Pi-powered Reachy Mini and the $399 Mac- or PC-powered Reachy Mini Lite. This rollout coincides with broader industry developments, as reports indicate Hugging Face is set to be acquired by Nvidia at a $13 billion valuation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Hugging Face Microduck cost?
The Microduck is priced at $399 and is available for pre-order in multiple colors.
https://x.com/ClementDelangue/status/2092947181124608115
What programming tools are included with the robot?
The full software development kit, simulation environment, and reinforcement learning training stack are available open-source on GitHub.
How does the Microduck navigate its surroundings?
The robot uses an integrated camera, lidar sensors, and two inertial measurement units to perceive its environment.
What are your thoughts on open-source physical AI hardware? Would you program a rollerskating duck robot for your home? Let us know in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for more robotics updates!
Worth a look