Silicon Valley-based robotics startup Figure AI is on the cusp of securing a monumental $1.5 billion funding round, which would propel its valuation to a staggering $39.5 billion, according to a report by Bloomberg. This marks a significant 15-fold increase from its previous post-money valuation of $2.6 billion, achieved during its $675 million Series B round last year.
The funding round, expected to be led by Align Ventures and Parkway Venture Capital, underscores the growing interest in humanoid robots, which have become increasingly popular due to the AI boom. Figure AI's focus on building humanoid robots for commercial and residential purposes has seemingly resonated with investors, who are betting big on the company's potential for growth.
Figure AI's success is not an isolated incident. Austin-based Apptronik recently raised $350 million, while tech giant Meta is reportedly exploring opportunities in the robotics space. The surge in investment activity suggests that humanoid robots are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of various industries.
Figure AI has already demonstrated its capabilities by selling robots to BMW, a major automotive manufacturer. In a recent social media post, the company's founder, Brett Adcock, revealed that Figure AI has secured a second, unnamed commercial customer and is targeting the shipment of 100,000 humanoid robots. While the company declined to comment on the funding rumors, its progress in the market speaks volumes about its potential.
The reported valuation of $39.5 billion would make Figure AI one of the most valuable privately held companies in the robotics space. As the company continues to scale its operations and expand its customer base, it will be interesting to see how it utilizes the influx of capital to drive innovation and growth.
The implications of Figure AI's funding round extend beyond the company itself, as it is likely to have a ripple effect on the broader robotics industry. With more investment pouring into the space, we can expect to see increased innovation, adoption, and competition in the years to come. As the AI boom continues to gather momentum, Figure AI's success serves as a testament to the vast opportunities that lie ahead for companies operating at the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence.