Hugging Face has introduced SmolVLA, a compact and efficient vision-language-action model designed for robotics applications. The model is notable for its ability to run on budget-friendly hardware, including standard laptops such as the MacBook, without requiring high-end computing resources. SmolVLA aims to democratize access to robotics AI by enabling affordable and open-source robotic control. The model incorporates novel techniques to enhance speed and efficiency, making it suitable for real-world robotic control on accessible devices. This development represents a step forward in open robotics, potentially broadening the scope of AI-driven robotics innovation beyond specialized and costly hardware.