OpenAI, while a major backer of humanoid robotics, is not primarily focused on embodied AI, which may have contributed to the partnership's challenges. The company has also been involved with other humanoid projects, such as Norwegian startup 1X, and recently filed a trademark application related to humanoid robots. Meanwhile, Figure's substantial funding has enabled rapid expansion of its hardware and software teams, and the company is exploring applications in both industrial and home settings. The move towards proprietary software development mirrors the Apple ecosystem approach, which, while resource-intensive, ensures seamless integration between software and hardware.
Key takeaways:
- Figure AI is exiting a deal with OpenAI to focus on developing in-house AI for humanoid robots due to a major breakthrough.
- The collaboration with OpenAI faced challenges due to integration issues, as OpenAI's primary focus is not on embodied AI.
- Figure AI has raised significant funding, allowing for rapid expansion of its hardware and software teams, and has moved to a larger office in the Bay Area.
- OpenAI may be exploring its own humanoid hardware, as indicated by a recent trademark application involving humanoid robots.