The global competition to integrate AI-driven humanoid robots into homes and workplaces escalated today with Figure's announcement of its latest model: Figure 02. Following a $675 million funding round in February, supported by investors like OpenAI, the company released a teaser video revealing a launch date of August 6, 2024.
The video, while lacking detailed specifications, showcases intriguing robotic joints and limbs, alongside innovative mesh designs. It includes impressive torque ratings of up to 150Nm and a range of motion (ROM) of 195 degrees out of a potential 360.
Founder Brett Adcock expressed his confidence in Figure 02, stating on his X/Twitter account that it is “the most advanced humanoid robot on the planet.”
Backed by Major Tech Players
Brett Adcock, who previously founded Archer Aviation and Vettery, launched Figure AI in 2022. In March 2023, the company unveiled Figure 01, a versatile humanoid robot designed to alleviate global labor shortages across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and retail. With a team of 40 industry professionals, including CTO Jerry Pratt, Figure AI completed its humanoid prototype in just six months. Adcock envisions these robots enhancing productivity and safety by performing hazardous tasks, assuring that they will not be weaponized.
In addition to OpenAI, Figure's investors include Nvidia, Microsoft, Intel Capital, and Bezos Expeditions. Earlier this year, the company partnered with BMW Manufacturing and demonstrated impressive capabilities by integrating OpenAI’s GPT-4V (vision model) into Figure 01. It's anticipated that Figure 02 will incorporate OpenAI's latest models to enhance its functionality.
Intensifying Competition in Humanoid Robotics
While Figure has maintained a low profile recently, other companies are actively launching and promoting their AI-driven humanoid robots for various applications, such as warehouses, factories, healthcare facilities, and private homes. Despite the long-standing vision of humanoid robots in science fiction, their commercial rollout has been slow, hindered by high costs and research-focused designs. However, advancements in generative AI, including large language models (LLMs) and multimodal AI, are transforming this landscape, enabling robots to process and respond to live inputs more effectively.
Elon Musk recently claimed there is potential demand for over 10 billion humanoid robots, aiming to capture a share with Tesla's rival model, Tesla Optimus. Nvidia has also made strides in enhancing AI training for humanoid robots through its Project GR00T initiative, utilizing Apple Vision Pro headsets for real-time tele-operation.
Moreover, Boston Dynamics has showcased upgrades to its Atlas humanoid robot, replacing hydraulic actuators with electric motors, making the design quieter, more reliable, and cost-effective.
With robust backing and strategic advances, Figure is well-positioned to continue its pioneering role in the humanoid robotics sector.
Ranking
