OpenAI-Backed Figure Unveils Teaser for Advanced Humanoid Robot

Figure, an AI-backed startup supported by notable companies such as OpenAI, NVidia, Microsoft, Intel Capital, and Bezos Expeditions, has unveiled a teaser for its latest humanoid robot, Figure 02. The announcement comes after securing $675 million in its last funding round in February and shows significant progress in its mission to develop advanced humanoid robots for practical application in various sectors.

The teaser, presented through a video, reveals elements of the new Figure 02 model, focusing on its robotic joints, limbs, and flexible mesh designs. While the specifics were scarce, the video highlighted torque ratings up to 150Nm and a range of motion of up to 195 degrees. Brett Adcock, the founder of Figure, claims that Figure 02 is the most advanced humanoid robot on the planet.

Figure aims to revolutionize the global labor market by leveraging humanoid robots to tackle labor shortages. The company's first model, Figure 01, was introduced in March 2023 as a general-purpose robot designed to perform tasks in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and retail. With a team of 40 industry experts, including Dr. Jerry Pratt as CTO, Figure completed the full-scale build of its humanoid in just six months.

The company's strategic partnerships and collaborations signify its robust momentum in the AI and robotics space. Earlier this year, Figure inked a deal with BMW Manufacturing and demonstrated successful integrations with OpenAI’s GPT-4V inside its Figure 01 robot. It is anticipated that the Figure 02 model will utilize newer OpenAI models like GPT-4o or GPT-4o mini for enhanced movement and interaction capabilities.

The humanoid robot market is heating up with multiple companies striving to bring AI-driven robots into homes and workplaces. Elon Musk has boldly projected a future with over 10 billion humanoid robots, spearheaded by Tesla's own AI and robotics division, which is developing a rival robot named Tesla Optimus. This reflects a broader trend where multi-modal AI models are being integrated into robots, enabling them to analyze live video and audio inputs and respond with human-like actions.

Innovations in training AI for humanoid robots are also advancing swiftly. Nvidia’s Project GR00T, for instance, uses Apple Vision Pro headsets for human tele-operators to guide robots, multiplying the collected data significantly through simulation. Additionally, Boston Dynamics has updated its Atlas robot by replacing hydraulic actuators with electric motors, aiming for improved performance and sustainability.

Figure's rapid development and high-profile backing position it well in this competitive sector. As the company develops increasingly sophisticated robots, it stands to play a crucial role in enhancing productivity and safety in various industries, tackling unsafe and undesirable jobs, and contributing to a more automated and efficient future. Continued advancements and partnerships will likely play a pivotal role in Figure's journey to revolutionize the robotics industry.