From Android to robots: Google executive reveals latest project

The former head of Android is now working on a new robotics effort for Google.

Andy Rubin, who cofounded and then led the Android mobile platform up until this year, is turning his passion for robots into a new “moonshot” venture for the Mountain View, Calif., tech company, the New York Times reported Wednesday.

Though few details have been revealed by Rubin or Google, the robotics effort is targeted at manufacturers and aims to improve the way Google and other companies assemble and deliver products.

PHOTOS: Top 10 ways to take advantage of the ‘sharing economy’

To accomplish this, Rubin is working with seven robotics companies that Google has acquired over the past half-year. Rubin is also hiring roboticists and is bringing on other Google programmers to expand the effort, according to the report.

A windshield wiper that can detect rain and activate itself is an example of the kinds of robotic models Rubin envisions, according to the report.

But it may be a while before anyone sees the results of Rubin’s robotics effort.

“Like any moonshot, you have to think of time as a factor,” Rubin told the newspaper. “We need enough runway and a 10-year vision.”

ALSO:

Microsoft develops bra to detect eating caused by stress

Uber to deliver some Christmas trees on demand Thursday

Amazon is not alone: UPS, Google also testing delivery drones