In a technological turning point, OpenAI sets a signal for the future with an investment in the robotics startup Figure AI.
As part of a funding round, the startup Figure AI, which focuses on developing humanoid robots, received $675 million from notable investors such as Jeff Bezos, Nvidia, Microsoft, and OpenAI. This capital injection underscores the trust in Figure AI’s potential to advance robotic technologies that can take over dangerous and undesirable tasks.
Founded in 2022, Figure AI has developed the general-purpose robot Figure 01, which exhibits human-like features and movements. With the fresh capital, the company plans to accelerate the development of this robot, intended for commercial use. Figure 01 could be used in industries such as manufacturing, shipping and logistics, warehousing, and retail—sectors where labor shortages are particularly acute. Figure AI emphasizes that its robots are not intended for military or defense purposes.
A recently released video demonstrates the capabilities of Figure 01: The robot, secured by a rope, walks on two legs, uses its five-fingered hands to lift a plastic box, takes a few steps, and then places the box on a conveyor belt. The long-term goal of Figure is for Figure 01 to “perform everyday tasks autonomously.” To achieve this goal, the company must develop more robust AI systems.
OpenAI’s participation in the funding round, the creator of ChatGPT, points to a partnership aimed at developing the next generation of AI models for humanoid robots. Figure also plans to use Microsoft’s Azure cloud services for AI infrastructure, training, and storage.
Despite the competitive landscape in the field of humanoid robots—with companies like Agility Robotics, Tesla, and Boston Dynamics pursuing similar goals—the investment in Figure AI reflects the investors’ belief in the company’s disruptive potential. Analysts at Goldman Sachs predict that the market for humanoid robots could reach a volume of $38 billion by 2035, with more than 250,000 units delivered in 2030. The costs of key components such as actuators, motors, and sensors necessary for operating humanoid robots are expected to decrease in the coming years.
With additional investors such as Intel’s venture fund, Cathie Wood’s Ark Invest, Align Ventures, and existing investor Parkway Venture Capital, Figure AI stands on the threshold of an era where humanoid robots could become a fixture in our daily work lives. The future promises exciting developments in the world of robotics, with Figure AI as one of the pioneers on this path.