Figure AI is a trailblazing robotics company redefining automation with its humanoid robots.
Founded in 2022 by Brett Adcock, the Sunnyvale-based startup swiftly emerged as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven robotics.
Its mission? The company’s mission is to develop general-purpose humanoid robots that can enhance productivity across various industries.
This, the company’s innovative approach, is transforming manufacturing, logistics, and even household tasks.
This article analyses the entirety of the project and why you should consider Figure AI in 2025 and beyond.
Figure AI and its innovative technologies
Originally, it unveiled Figure 01, a two-legged robot crafted for physical work tasks. This prototype, unveiled in 2023, targeted logistics and warehousing. It showcased human-like movements, navigating uneven terrain with ease.
Moreover, Figure 01’s ability to handle delicate objects impressed early testers. In 2024, the humanoid robotics company raised an impressive $675 million from industry leaders like Microsoft, Nvidia, and Jeff Bezos. This funding, which valued the company at $2.6 billion, drove significant progress.
Consequently, the AI company fast-tracked its innovation, unveiling Figure 02 in August 2024.
Figure 02
Figure 02 represents a monumental leap forward. With six red, green, and blue (RGB) cameras, it observes its surroundings with exceptional accuracy.
Additionally, its onboard vision-language model enables rapid visual reasoning. This allows Figure 02 to execute tasks autonomously, from picking up objects to engaging in natural conversations.
Furthermore, its 16-degree-of-freedom hands mimic human dexterity, lifting up to 55 pounds. With a 2.25 kWh battery integrated into its torso, Figure 02 operates longer and moves nimbly. These enhancements make it ideal for industrial applications.
Significantly, Figure AI partnered with BMW to test Figure 02 in automotive manufacturing. During trials in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the robot handled sheet-metal parts with precision. This partnership underscores Figure AI’s commitment to practical, real-world applications.
Unlike single-function robots, Figure’s humanoids adapt to diverse tasks. For instance, they can sort items, assemble components, or assist in retail settings. As a result, industries facing labour shortages find Figure’s robots invaluable. The company’s commitment to non-military applications further distinguishes it ethically.
Figure’s Helix Model
Moreover, Figure’s Helix model, an evolution of Figure 02, introduces groundbreaking features. Helix boasts 35 degrees of freedom, including human-like wrists and fingers. Its Helix VLA neural network controls two robots simultaneously, enabling collaborative tasks.
Featuring dual GPUs, it handles high-level planning at 7-9 Hz and low-level control at 200 Hz. As a result, Helix responds to natural language (NL) commands and navigates complex environments effortlessly. This breakthrough places the company as a leader in the robotics industry.
Figure AI faces challenges
Humanoid robots require extensive safety regulations, which are still developing. Additionally, scaling production to meet demand is complex.
Figure currently manufactures one robot weekly, aiming for two per week in the not-too-distant future.
While this pace is impressive, achieving founder Adcock’s vision of millions of affordable robots demands time.
Furthermore, integrating humanoids into dynamic work environments requires advanced AI to ensure common-sense reasoning.
In contrast, competitors like Boston Dynamics and Tesla focus on specific applications. Boston Dynamics’ Atlas thrives in agile manoeuvres, whereas Tesla’s Optimus focuses on automotive functions.
Nevertheless, Figure AI’s general-purpose design offers unmatched versatility. By prioritising adaptability, the company targets a broader market. Currently, Figure AI’s unique models signal even more significant advancements.
The Bottom Line: Will Figure AI dominate the robotics market in the future?
Ultimately, Figure AI is revolutionising robotics with AI-powered humanoids. Figure 02 and Helix demonstrate unparalleled dexterity and autonomy.
The robotics market is forecasted to generate US$50.80 billion in revenue in 2025. Service robotics leads with an anticipated market volume of US$40.58 billion in 2025. Revenue is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.49% from 2025 to 2029, reaching a market volume of US$73.01 billion by 2029.
Figure AI will play an instrumental role in attaining this valuation because their robots promise safer, more efficient workplaces and homes. Thus, Figure AI shines as a pioneer, expanding the limits of robotic capabilities.
