Figure AI

Figure AI is a U.S.-based robotics company founded in 2022 by Brett Adcock, also the founder of Archer Aviation and Vettery. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, the company specializes in developing AI-powered humanoid robots aimed at addressing labor shortages and performing dangerous or undesirable tasks. Its team comprises experts from robotics, artificial intelligence, sensing, perception, and navigation, with experience from companies like Boston Dynamics and Tesla.

Industry Impact

Figure AI aims to revolutionize industries by integrating humanoid robots into commercial operations. Its robots are positioned to address labor shortages and improve efficiency across sectors like logistics, manufacturing, retail, and even home assistance. The company's focus on creating "general-purpose humanoids" aligns with broader societal trends toward automation while emphasizing collaboration rather than replacement of human workers.

In summary, Figure AI combines cutting-edge robotics technology with strategic business initiatives to establish itself as a leader in the emerging field of humanoid robotics. Its innovative approach and robust funding underscore its potential for transformative impact across industries.

Figure AI has developed two key humanoid robots:

1. Figure 01:
   • Launched as the company's first prototype, Figure 01 is a bipedal humanoid robot designed for manual labor in sectors like logistics and warehousing.
   • Specifications:
     • Height: 5'6" (167 cm)
     • Weight: 60 kg
     • Payload capacity: 20 kg
     • Runtime: 5 hours
     • Speed: 1.2 m/s
   • Capabilities include navigating real-world environments, manipulating objects, climbing stairs, and engaging in natural language conversations.
2. Figure 02:
   • Introduced as the next-generation humanoid robot, Figure 02 features advanced capabilities such as human-equivalent strength and precision down to the millimeter.
   • It can autonomously perform complex tasks like handling heavy objects (up to 55 pounds) and assembling components in manufacturing environments.

In February 2025, Figure AI announced Helix, a further evolution of its humanoid robot line.

Figure 01, the advanced humanoid robot developed by Figure AI, demonstrates several specialisms that showcase its versatility and potential for real-world applications. Here are some of its key specialisms:

Task Learning and Execution

Figure 01 excels at learning and executing various tasks through observation and AI-powered processing. The robot can watch humans perform actions and then replicate them with a high degree of accuracy. For example:

• Coffee Making: Figure 01 has demonstrated the ability to make coffee by operating a coffee machine. It can pick up coffee capsules, insert them into the machine, close the lid, and turn the machine on.
• Real-time Error Correction: While performing tasks, Figure 01 can identify and correct mistakes in real-time, showcasing its adaptive learning capabilities.

Environmental Interaction

The robot is designed to interact safely and effectively with its surroundings:

• Object Recognition: Figure 01 can discern objects not only by their shape but also by their functionality, allowing it to use various tools and items appropriately.
• Force Adjustment: When manipulating objects, the robot can adjust its movements based on the resistance it encounters, enabling it to handle delicate items as well as heavier loads.

Multi-tasking Capabilities

Figure 01 demonstrates impressive multi-tasking abilities:

• Simultaneous Physical and Cognitive Tasks: The robot can perform physical actions while engaging in conversation or explaining its reasoning, showcasing its ability to handle complex, multi-faceted interactions.

Visual and Language Processing

Powered by advanced AI, Figure 01 has sophisticated visual and language processing capabilities:

• Visual Language Model (VLM): Developed in collaboration with OpenAI, this model allows Figure 01 to "see" and understand its environment, enabling it to respond to visual cues and verbal instructions.
• Natural Conversation: The robot can engage in fluent, context-aware conversations with humans, understanding and responding to complex queries.

Industrial Applications

Figure 01 is being developed with practical industrial uses in mind:

• Supply Chain Support: The robot is designed to work in various supply chain roles, potentially addressing labor shortages in sectors such as warehouses, transportation, and retail.
• Automotive Production: Figure has signed a commercial agreement with BMW to provide humanoid robots for automotive production, indicating the robot's potential for complex manufacturing tasks.

These specialisms demonstrate Figure 01's potential to revolutionize various industries by combining advanced AI with sophisticated robotics, enabling it to perform a wide range of tasks that previously required human intervention.

Figure AI has demonstrated strong business viability through substantial funding and strategic partnerships:

• Funding:
  • Raised $70 million in May 2023 from Parkway Venture Capital.
  • Secured $675 million in February 2024 from investors including Jeff Bezos, Microsoft, Nvidia, Intel, Amazon's startup division, and OpenAI. This funding valued the company at $2.6 billion.
• Partnerships:
  • Collaborated with BMW to deploy humanoid robots in automotive manufacturing facilities.
  • Partnered with OpenAI (until early 2025) to enhance its robots' language processing and reasoning capabilities.
• Manufacturing Expansion:
  • Launched BOTQ manufacturing facility in March 2025, capable of producing up to 12,000 humanoid robots per year.