Tech giants like Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and Nvidia are investing in Figure AI, a startup focused on developing humanoid robots. The funding round, supported by OpenAI and Microsoft, aims to raise around $675 million, valuing Figure AI at approximately $2 billion.
Bezos’ Explore Investments LLC is committing $100 million, with Microsoft contributing $95 million. Nvidia and an Amazon-affiliated fund are each injecting $50 million into the venture. The surge in investments follows the success of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, attracting investors betting on the potential of AI startups to surpass larger competitors.
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OpenAI, initially considering acquisition, now invests $5 million in Figure. Other backers include Intel’s venture arm, LG Innotek, Samsung’s investment group, Parkway Venture Capital, and Align Ventures. Figure AI also secures investments from ARK Venture Fund, Aliya Capital Partners, and Tamarack.
While major players like Amazon, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Intel refrain from commenting, Figure AI and other entities mentioned in the report have yet to respond to requests for comments. In its previous funding round, Figure AI, based in Sunnyvale, California, secured $70 million for its versatile humanoid robots capable of diverse tasks in various environments, from warehouse duties to retail operations.