Tesla plans to introduce humanoid robots for internal purposes starting next year, with plans for broader production by 2026, according to CEO Elon Musk.

In a recent social media update, Musk shared that the robots, known as Optimus, will start performing factory tasks later this year and could be commercially available by late 2025.

Humanoid robots have been under development by major companies like Honda and Hyundai's Boston Dynamics, aiming to tackle labor shortages and handle repetitive or hazardous tasks in industries such as logistics and manufacturing.

Musk has previously said that Tesla would have "robotaxi" autonomous cars by 2020. However, he announced a delay for the robotaxi last week, citing a significant design change.

Tesla introduced the first generation of its Optimus robot, named Bumblebee, in September 2022. This year, the company released a video showcasing a second-generation bipedal robot folding a T-shirt at their facility.

In recent months, Musk has shifted his focus toward artificial intelligence, autonomous driving software, robotaxis and the Optimus robot in light of decreasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs), which account for over 80 percent of Tesla's quarterly revenue.

(With input from Reuters)