Figure AI Debuts New Humanoid Robot to Challenge Tesla

Robotics startup Figure AI has unveiled the brand new Figure 02, the latest iteration of its humanoid robots following the debut of its Figure 01 model in March. The new model features significant upgrades, including enhanced AI systems, improved computer vision with six AI-powered RGB cameras, and a redesigned battery pack.

Some changes give the model some advantages over its competitors, like its brand new set of hands. The new iteration has 16 degrees of freedom, which is more than any top-of-the-line robot—but still way less than a real human hand, which has 27 degrees of freedom.

Figure says its update also brings an inference system that processes information three times faster than the previous model, with 50% more runtime compared to its latest generation, and AI-powered learning and self-corrections for working tasks.

Figure AI has partnered with OpenAI to bring advanced language and visual processing to their robots. An earlier demo of its Figure 01 model showcased real-time conversations and task completion driven by AI. Figure's senior AI engineer, Corey Lynch, explained that it could "describe its visual experience, plan future actions, reflect on its memory, and explain its reasoning verbally." This has also been improved in Figure 02.

Figure AI recently secured a $2.6 billion valuation after raising $675 million from investors including Microsoft, OpenAI, Nvidia, and Jeff Bezos. OpenAI also backs 1X, which also focuses on developing AI-powered humanoid robots.

And 1X isn't sitting idle, either. Their latest offering, the NEO robot, builds on the success of their previous EVE model. NEO is designed specifically for home assistance, aiming to bring humanoid robots into everyday domestic life. This contrasts with Figure’s strategy focused on building a robotic workforce for industrial tasks.

1X says EVE already has deployments in security and potential healthcare roles across Europe and the US.

Finally, there's Tesla's Optimus—also known as the Tesla Bot—which also performs a wide range of tasks in ways similar to how a human would. The Optimus features 28 structural actuators and 11 degrees of freedom in its hands, and utilizes Tesla's autopilot cameras and self-driving computer technology to navigate and perceive its environment.

The Figure 02 demo video appears similar to Tesla's Optimus Gen-2 showcase from December 2023. Both robots demonstrate improved dexterity and movement. A suite of AI tools from Nvidia—including Nim Microservices, OSMO, and MimicGen—are powering much of this progress across the industry.

With the reveal of Figure 02, Figure AI founder Brett Adcock wasted no time throwing down the gauntlet. Responding to an earlier "Bring it on" challenge from Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Twitter, Adcock posted the "Look at me, I'm the captain now" meme from the film Captain Phillips. While Musk later deleted his tweet, the retort remains.

This integration of powerful AI with humanoid bodies has raised both excitement and concerns. Some observers draw parallels to catastrophic science fiction scenarios, while others focus on potential applications in fields like space exploration or dangerous industries.

For Adcock, the robotics industry will have a net positive outcome in the future.

“These robots can eliminate the need for unsafe and undesirable jobs—ultimately allowing us to live happier, more purposeful lives,” he said on Figure AI’s official site.

Edited by Ryan Ozawa.