AI’s Human Form Emerges
Artificial intelligence is no longer confined to abstract algorithms or chatbots. It’s manifesting in the most tangible way possible—through humanoid robots. In the heart of South Carolina’s car factories, these AI-driven machines are stepping into roles traditionally filled by humans.
Figure 02, a fourth-generation robotics platform trialed at BMW’s Spartanburg plant, is the most recent addition to this emerging workforce. This robot, designed by Figure, is equipped with cutting-edge hardware and a “vision language model,” likely powered by OpenAI’s multi-modal GPT-4o. This Model allows it to process and interact with its environment like a human would.
However, the real challenge lies in developing these robots’ software, or the “brain,” Optimus, where Tesla’s Optimus Gen 2 stands out. Optimus, built on Tesla’s powerful autonomous driving technology, is already years ahead of its competitors. Its software, trained on billions of miles of real-world driving data, allows it to navigate and perform tasks in unstructured environments—a feat no humanoid robot has yet achieved.
- Tesla has been manifesting its own future labor force through its development of Optimus, which builds upon Tesla’s powerful autonomous driving technology.
- Agility Robotics has had a partnership with Ford, primarily focused on last-mile logistics – package delivery – but this technology could certainly be applied to moving containers of parts around a manufacturing plant.
- Apptronik is piloting its Apollo humanoid robot with Mercedes focused on using the technology for low-skill, physically demanding labor.
- Sanctuary AI is testing its Phoenix humanoid robot with Magna International, one of the largest car parts manufacturers in the world.
- And Hyundai acquired 80% of Boston Dynamics from Softbank in 2021 for $1.1 billion, driven largely by the same reasons as the others.
The Urgent Demand for Labor
An urgent need fuels the drive to develop these robots. Industries like automotive manufacturing are struggling with labor shortages, particularly for repetitive and physically demanding jobs. Companies like Tesla, Figure, and others are racing to fill this gap with AI-powered robots.
Despite impressive advancements, Figure 02 still needs more human efficiency, as evidenced by BMW’s decision not to adopt the technology full-time. While Figure 02’s hardware has been redesigned from the ground up, it’s clear that without a proper “brain,” it remains limited.
Source: Figure
Optimus: The AI Brain of the Future
In contrast, Tesla’s Optimus is built on a foundation of autonomy that other robots lack. Using computer vision, Optimus “sees” its environment and reasons the most efficient way to complete tasks. This level of independence is unmatched in the industry and positions Tesla at the forefront of humanoid robot development.
While Figure 02 is impressive, it’s a highly advanced chatbot with limbs. Tesla’s Optimus, however, is a fully autonomous entity capable of navigating any environment—a true manifestation of AI in human form.
A Future with AI Brains
As we look to the future, it is easy to imagine a world where humanoid robots like Optimus and Figure 02 become common in factories and beyond. The image of a brainless Scarecrow standing in a cornfield may soon be outdated—replaced by robots with AI brains capable of far more than we ever imagined.
Source: Figure
Conclusion
The evolution of AI and humanoid robots is rapidly accelerating, promising to reshape industries and the labor market. Companies like Tesla and Figure lead the charge, each with their unique approach to solving the challenges of developing autonomous, human-like machines. As these technologies advance, the line between humans and machines will blur, bringing us closer to a future where robots work alongside us—or perhaps even replace us.