The funding from Intel Capital will support the development of the robot, which is expected to find use in warehouses and e-commerce fulfillment centers. Figure AI also envisions the robot being used in retail locations or on factory floors. The company plans to release new hardware and software updates for the system every six months. The investment in robotics startups like Figure AI could potentially help chipmakers like Intel secure processor supply deals in the future, as autonomous warehouse machines often include multiple onboard processors, including specialized AI accelerators.
Key takeaways:
- Intel Capital has invested $9 million in Figure AI Inc., a startup working on creating a humanoid warehouse robot.
- The startup's goal is to build the world’s first commercially viable autonomous humanoid robot, with the first prototype, Figure 01, expected to be 5.2 feet tall and weigh about 130 pounds.
- Figure AI Inc. is primarily using off-the-shelf robot components to build its systems but also operates a machine shop at its Sunnyvale, California, office that can produce custom-designed parts.
- The funding from Intel Capital could help support the development effort, and investing in robotics startups can potentially help chipmakers secure processor supply deals in the future.