Figure is expected to launch its humanoid robots into homes sooner than expected. Later in 2025, Figure will begin "alpha testing" of its Figure 02 robot at home, according to the company's CEO Brett Adcock. Their own Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model, Helix, which combines verbal and visual input to improve learning skills, is the driving force behind this action.
This change was made public shortly after Figure introduced the Helix platform, which was a significant step after ending their partnership with OpenAI to focus on in-house AI development. Preliminary testing during a visit to Figure's South Bay facility suggests at-home testing is not a new approach to their mission.
Despite these developments, Figure, like many companies in the industry, has shifted its focus from household chores to more lucrative industrial uses. As part of a broader industry initiative to test humanoid robots in regulated and structured environments, Figure began piloting its robots at a BMW production facility in South Carolina in 2024.
However, companies such as Apptronik, Tesla and the recently founded Norwegian start-up 1X are exploring the possibilities of humanoid robots for domestic applications. These robots are seen as useful in helping older people maintain their independence, a growing concern in countries like Japan and the United States.
Although the first at-home tests are part of Figure's 2025 plan, the details are still unclear, indicating that the testing phase is still in its early stages.
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