Figure to Pioneer Humanoid Robot Testing in Homes by 2025

In a significant development, Figure, a Bay Area robotics startup, has announced plans to initiate “alpha testing” of its humanoid robot, Figure 02, in home settings by 2025. This accelerated timeline is attributed to the company’s innovative Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model, Helix.

The Power of Helix

Helix, a machine learning platform, is designed to process visual data and natural language input, enabling the system to rapidly learn new tasks. This proprietary technology has enabled Figure to break away from its previous partnership with OpenAI and forge its own path in humanoid robotics.

Home Testing: A New Frontier

While the home environment poses unique challenges, such as varied lighting conditions, uneven floor surfaces, and unpredictable human behavior, Figure is committed to exploring this new frontier. The company’s CEO, Brett Adcock, has emphasized the potential benefits of humanoid robots in the home, including assistance for aging populations and support for independent living.

Industrial Deployment: A Stepping Stone

Before venturing into home testing, Figure has been piloting its humanoid systems in industrial settings, such as a BMW plant in South Carolina. This experience has provided valuable insights and laid the groundwork for the company’s expansion into home testing.

A Growing Market

Figure is not alone in its pursuit of humanoid robotics for home use. Other companies, such as Apptronik and Tesla, are also exploring this market. As the global population ages, the demand for assistive technologies is expected to grow, making this a lucrative and socially impactful market.

Challenges Ahead

While Figure’s plans for home testing are ambitious, the company acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. Pricing, safety, and adaptability to diverse home environments are just a few of the hurdles that must be overcome.

Conclusion

Figure’s decision to initiate alpha testing of its humanoid robot in homes by 2025 marks a significant milestone in the development of assistive technologies. As the company navigates the complexities of home testing, it is clear that the potential benefits of humanoid robots in the home are substantial.