UPS Explores Humanoid Robots As Figure AI Secures $675M From Jeff Bezos, OpenAI, And Intel, Targeting $9B Revenue By 2029
Now valued at $2.6 billion, the San Jose, California-based startup is in talks with United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS) to integrate its humanoid robots into the global shipping giant's logistics infrastructure, according to Bloomberg.
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Figure AI was founded in 2022 by serial entrepreneur Brett Adcock, who previously launched Vettery and Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR). Adcock's bio says that his goal is to create a fully autonomous humanoid robot that can safely, efficiently, and intelligently perform a wide range of physical tasks that are currently repetitive, physically draining, or simply undesirable for human workers.
According to Bloomberg, the company's latest model, Figure 02, features integrated cabling, a torso battery, and real-time computing power using Nvidia RTX GPU-based modules. It's outfitted with 6 RGB cameras, directional microphones, speakers, and a custom-built conversational AI developed in collaboration with OpenAI. Figure 02 also boasts 16 degrees of freedom in its redesigned hands, which allow it to lift and maneuver up to 55 pounds. These capabilities are being actively tested in real-world settings, including on the factory floor at BMW.
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While both UPS and rival FedEx (NYSE:FDX) have incorporated autonomous systems like sorting and ground robots into their operations, neither has implemented humanoid robots until now.
Bloomberg reported last year that UPS and Figure AI began discussions in 2023 and resumed them in early 2025 as Figure's latest model reached new performance milestones. If an agreement is finalized, UPS will become one of the first global logistics companies to pilot humanoid labor at an industrial scale.
This move comes as UPS is undergoing a significant restructuring in response to declining package volumes, particularly from major clients like Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), and economic pressures stemming from international tariffs. According to Reuters, UPS plans to cut 20,000 jobs and close 73 facilities by June, aiming to save $3.5 billion through workforce reductions, automation, and asset sales. These measures are part of UPS's strategy to adapt to shifting market dynamics and enhance operational efficiency.Adcock believes humanoid robots are the next frontier in workforce transformation. He said in a statement that Figure's vision is 'to bring humanoid robots into commercial operations as soon as possible. AI and robotics are the future, and I am grateful to have the support of investors and partners who believe in being at the forefront."
Figure's mission has always been about filling the gap where human labor is in short supply or at risk. The startup says it is building toward a future where robots can work side-by-side with humans, or even independently, across warehouses, manufacturing floors, and homes.
Figure AI is not alone in the humanoid race since competitors like Optimus, created by Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA), and Agility Robotics' Digit are also vying to dominate this emerging sector. However, with backing from the world's top AI labs, chipmakers, and billionaires, Figure AI is showing that humanoid labor is no longer a sci-fi dream but a near-future solution to real-world industrial problems.
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This article UPS Explores Humanoid Robots As Figure AI Secures $675M From Jeff Bezos, OpenAI, And Intel, Targeting $9B Revenue By 2029 originally appeared on Benzinga.com
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