Figure has introduced its newest humanoid robot, the Figure 02, marking a significant advancement from its predecessor, the Figure 01, unveiled in 2023. The initial teaser video focuses more on a cinematic presentation than a demonstration of the robot’s functionality. Another recent video highlights the robot's slow, bent-leg gait as it moves across a demo area within Figure's office, while additional robots in the background transport totes—one of the most promising applications for humanoid robots.
A notable development in this iteration is the collaboration with OpenAI, which played a crucial role in Figure's recent $675 million Series B funding round, valuing the company at $2.6 billion. The surge of neural networks in the tech space has greatly intrigued the robotics sector, particularly among humanoid developers. The unique selling point of humanoid robots is their ability to integrate seamlessly into human work environments, especially on factory floors, after establishing appropriate safety protocols. The Figure 02 is equipped with speakers and microphones, enabling it to communicate with human colleagues effectively.
Innovative models like ChatGPT and Google Gemini are prized for their advanced natural language processing abilities, creating opportunities for next-generation smart assistants and chatbots. Incorporating these language features into humanoid robots is essential for facilitating human instructions and enhancing the transparency of the robots' actions. Clear communication is vital because, despite their human-like appearance, these robots are still large, heavy machines. When combined with vision and proximity sensors, verbal communication can significantly enhance safety.
Figure is not alone in this innovative effort. Last year, Agility demonstrated its advancements in using generative AI to improve human-robot communication. Google’s Everyday Robots team also emphasized the importance of neural networks in their operations before their project was concluded. Furthermore, Elon Musk oversees both Grok AI and the Optimus projects, which are likely to intersect soon.
OpenAI has strategically invested in the humanoid field. Before backing Figure, they supported the Norwegian company 1X. However, Figure has gained notable traction in the industry, attracting investment from significant tech companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, Nvidia, and Intel Capital during its Series B funding.
Figure recently started pilot programs with BMW. In June, the company shared a video of an earlier tethered version of the robot autonomously executing tasks on the production floor, guided by neural networks. The Figure 02 has already visited BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina facility for training and data gathering. These collaborations are still in their infancy, with companies like Agility, Apptronik, and Sanctuary AI announcing similar projects with automotive manufacturers. Tesla is a key focus for Optimus, and Hyundai, the parent company of Boston Dynamics, is also exploring humanoid applications in its manufacturing processes.
Communication is an essential element of what Figure describes as a “ground-up hardware and software redesign” between the Figure 01 and 02 models. This redesign features six RGB cameras, an onboard visual language model, enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities, and improved hands with 16 degrees of freedom.
The design of humanoid robot hands has sparked considerable debate among designers. While the dexterity of human hands is impressive, human-inspired designs are often criticized for being overly delicate and complex. Despite this, Figure remains committed to implementing human-like hands as the end effectors for its robots.
Although a broader rollout timeline for the Figure 02 remains unclear, the company hints at ambitions beyond warehouse applications. "Figure's robot merges the versatility of human form with advanced AI to tackle a variety of tasks in commercial settings and, in the near future, in home environments," the company states.
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