Bezos and Nvidia Partner with OpenAI to Fund Humanoid Robot Startup: Bloomberg

In a bold move signalling a profound shift in the tech landscape, industry titans Amazon.com (AMZN.O.), Nvidia (NVDA.O.), and others are channelling significant investments into Figure AI, a startup at the forefront of developing human-like robots. Bloomberg News, citing insider sources, reported on Friday that Figure AI has secured backing from heavyweights including Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos, through his firm Explore Investments LLC, and Nvidia, along with notable support from OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and Microsoft (MSFT.O).

The funding round, estimated at a staggering $675 million, is poised to elevate Figure AI's stature within the burgeoning field of robotics, boasting a pre-money valuation of approximately $2 billion. This influx of capital underscores the growing interest and confidence in AI-driven ventures, particularly those with a focus on robotics, which are perceived as pivotal players in shaping the future of various industries.

According to Bloomberg's report, Bezos has committed a substantial $100 million to the endeavour, signalling his strategic interest in the advancement of robotics technology. Microsoft is following suit with a significant investment of $95 million, while Nvidia and an Amazon-affiliated fund are each contributing $50 million, further cementing their commitment to Figure AI's vision.

The meteoric rise of artificial intelligence startups has been propelled by notable milestones, including the viral success of OpenAI's ChatGPT, which captivated audiences worldwide upon its launch in November 2022. This surge in interest has prompted investors to seize upon the opportunity presented by AI startups, betting on their potential to disrupt established players in the tech arena.

OpenAI, a key player in the AI landscape, is not only contributing to Figure AI's funding but has also entertained the possibility of acquiring the startup, as revealed in the Bloomberg report. This strategic alignment underscores the synergies between industry pioneers and emerging innovators as they collectively strive to push the boundaries of technological advancement.

Figure AI's impressive roster of backers extends beyond tech giants, with Intel's (INTC.O) venture capital arm, LG Innotek, and Samsung's investment group joining the fray. Additionally, venture firms Parkway Venture Capital and Align Ventures are among the supporters identified in the report, highlighting the diverse array of stakeholders propelling Figure AI's trajectory.

While Amazon, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Intel declined to comment on the developments, Figure AI and other entities mentioned in the report have yet to respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Nevertheless, the momentum behind Figure AI's fundraising efforts underscores the industry's collective enthusiasm for the transformative potential of humanoid robotics, with implications spanning from warehouses to retail environments.

Last year, Figure AI, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, garnered significant attention with its maiden external funding round, securing $70 million led by Parkway Venture Capital. The company's pioneering work in developing versatile humanoid robots capable of navigating diverse environments and performing a myriad of tasks positions it as a front runner in the quest to redefine the future of robotics. As investors continue to flock to AI-driven ventures, Figure AI stands poised to lead the charge towards a new era of technological innovation and disruption.