Intel’s Investment is Directed to a Startup Called Figure, Which Works on the Development of Humanoid Robots
Intel, a technology giant, is always on the lookout for investment and innovation opportunities in the market. This time, the company decided to invest US$9 million in a promising startup that stands out for developing humanoid robots. Figure, as the company is called, believes that these machines will be able to take on physically demanding jobs, filling vacancies that are currently unfilled by the human workforce.
Figure, which received the million-dollar investment from Intel, developed the Figure 01, a bipedal robot in carbon gray with 5’7″ in height and 132 lbs in weight. Its significant differentiator is the ability to perform a variety of physical tasks, such as going up and down stairs, opening doors, assisting people in getting up and picking up small objects, among other functions. While many robots are limited to a specific task, the Figure 01 is designed to be versatile and adaptable.
Autonomy and Efficiency of the Robots That Received Millions in Investment from Intel
In addition to its versatility, Figure assures that the Figure 01 will have an autonomy of up to five hours with its battery between charges. The company is also committed to making the production of these robots more viable and efficient, with the goal of enabling the Figure 01s to manufacture other units in the future, reducing costs and increasing manufacturing process efficiency.
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Intel is not the only company investing in the development of humanoid robots. Another major player in the sector is Boston Dynamics, which has already begun selling quadrupedal robots for US$75,000 and plans to launch Atlas, a humanoid with an impressive speed of up to 8.2 ft per second and the ability to perform flips. This market is growing, and Figure’s partnership with Intel may further accelerate the advancement of these technologies.
Ethics and Responsibility Needed for the Development of Humanoid Robots
Intel’s bet on Figure and the development of humanoid robots could bring significant advancements in the job market, making them a solution for heavy and monotonous physical activities. However, it is important that there is caution and adequate regulation by Figure and Intel to ensure that these technologies are used ethically and responsibly, avoiding future scenarios worthy of science fiction. The future of these robots could revolutionize the industry and provide benefits for both productivity and the quality of life of people.
