Figure

Figure is a pioneering AI robotics company with a mission to expand human capabilities through advanced AI and robotics. Founded by Brett Adcock, the company is developing the world's first commercially viable general-purpose humanoid robots. Their goal is to address critical labor shortages, eliminate the need for unsafe and undesirable jobs, and ultimately create a better life for future generations. By taking an AI-first approach, Figure is building robots that can think, learn, and interact with their environment autonomously.

The flagship product, Figure 02, is an electromechanical humanoid designed to operate in the real world. Unlike specialized, single-task robots, Figure's human-like form factor—with two arms, two legs, and dexterous hands—allows it to seamlessly integrate into human-centric environments like factories, warehouses, and eventually, homes, without requiring expensive infrastructure modifications. This design enables it to perform a vast range of tasks, from moving boxes to using complex tools.

How to use Figure

Deploying and interacting with a Figure robot is a streamlined process designed for enterprise and industrial settings.

1. Consultation and Site Assessment: Businesses partner with Figure to identify key tasks for automation. The Figure team assesses the operational environment, such as a manufacturing plant or a logistics center, to plan for deployment.
2. Task Training and AI Integration: Figure robots are powered by an advanced AI system called Helix, a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model. This allows the robots to learn tasks through various methods: watching human demonstrations, processing natural language commands (e.g., "Please pick up the tote and place it on the conveyor belt"), or through reinforcement learning. This AI-driven approach eliminates the need for complex, manual programming for every new task.
3. Autonomous Operation: Once deployed and trained, the robot operates autonomously, performing its designated functions end-to-end. It navigates dynamic spaces, manipulates objects with precision, and works safely alongside human employees.
4. Fleet Management and Monitoring: Enterprises can likely manage and monitor their fleet of Figure robots through a centralized software platform, allowing for task assignment, performance tracking, and system diagnostics.

Core Features of Figure

• Humanoid Form Factor: Designed to mimic the human body, enabling it to navigate spaces like stairs, open doors, and use tools made for humans.
• Advanced AI System (Helix): A sophisticated Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model that allows the robot to understand, reason, and act based on visual and linguistic inputs.
• Speech-to-Speech Reasoning: Integrates with large language models (like those from OpenAI) to understand and respond to spoken commands, making interaction intuitive and natural.
• Autonomous Learning: The robot can learn new skills and adapt to new tasks without explicit programming, continuously improving its capabilities over time.
• Fully Electromechanical System: Operates on a clean, efficient electric system, suitable for a wide range of indoor environments.
• Designed for Safety: Built with multiple safety protocols to ensure it can operate reliably and safely in close proximity to people.

Use Cases for Figure

Figure is designed for a wide array of applications, starting with structured industrial environments and expanding to more complex roles.

• Manufacturing: Performing repetitive tasks on assembly lines, transporting materials, and assisting with quality control (as demonstrated in its partnership with BMW).
• Logistics and Warehousing: Automating package sorting, palletizing, depalletizing, and general goods movement to enhance efficiency and address labor gaps.
• Retail: Assisting with back-of-store operations, such as stocking shelves, managing inventory, and preparing orders.
• Future Consumer Applications: The long-term vision includes deploying Figure robots in homes to assist with daily chores like laundry, cooking, and elder care.
• Off-World Exploration: The ultimate goal extends to using these humanoids for construction and exploration in space.

Advantages of Figure

• Solves Labor Shortages: Directly addresses the growing gap in the labor market for physically demanding or repetitive jobs.
• No Infrastructure Overhaul: The humanoid design allows it to work in existing facilities, saving businesses the massive cost of redesigning their spaces for automation.
• General-Purpose Flexibility: Unlike single-function robots, a Figure humanoid is a versatile asset that can be repurposed for different tasks, maximizing its utility and return on investment.
• Cutting-Edge AI: The AI-first approach ensures the robot is not just a piece of hardware but an intelligent agent that learns and improves, becoming more valuable over time.
• Strong Vision and Team: Led by experienced entrepreneurs and backed by a world-class team of robotics and AI experts with a clear, ambitious master plan.

Pricing and Plans

As a cutting-edge, enterprise-focused robotics solution, Figure does not list public pricing. Pricing is expected to be customized based on the scale of deployment, specific use cases, and the level of support required. The business model may involve direct purchase, leasing, or a Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) subscription. Interested organizations should contact the Figure sales team directly for a consultation and a custom quote.