15-3-2024 (SAN FRANCISCO) Figure, a pioneering startup in collaboration with OpenAI, has intensified the competition in the field of humanoid robotics with the release of a groundbreaking video showcasing capabilities surpassing those of Tesla’s Optimus. Unveiled on Wednesday, the video introduces Figure 01, the latest advancement in robotic technology from the company, engaging in a remarkably lifelike interaction with a human counterpart.
Available for viewing on YouTube, the footage captures a compelling conversation between a person and Figure 01, pronounced “Figure One.” During the exchange, the robot demonstrates impressive object recognition abilities, accurately identifying items in its surroundings. It articulates its observations with a human-like tone, stating, “I see a red apple on a plate in the centre of the table, a drying rack with cups and a plate, and you standing nearby with your hand on the table.”
The interaction progresses as the human participant requests an edible item, prompting Figure 01 to seamlessly hand over the apple. Subsequent requests to pick up trash are met with adept responses from the robot, despite a brief lag in processing time. The demonstration culminates with Figure 01 meticulously arranging dishes on the table and placing them in the drying rack, showcasing its precision and dexterity.
The video serves as a compelling testament to Figure’s advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics, providing viewers with a glimpse into the remarkable capabilities of the robot.
Figure’s showcase comes at a critical juncture amidst skepticism surrounding Tesla’s Optimus. Despite Elon Musk’s initial reveal in 2021, subsequent demonstrations of Optimus have faced scrutiny, with questions raised about the authenticity of the robot’s autonomous capabilities. Analysis of a video depicting Optimus folding laundry suggested the possibility of teleoperation, a method of remote manipulation.
In contrast, Brett Adcock, co-founder of Figure, asserts that Figure 01 operates autonomously, without the aid of teleoperation. “The video is demonstrating end-to-end neural networks. There is no teleop involved,” stated Adcock, emphasizing the authenticity of Figure 01’s interactions.
The claims of genuine autonomy are reinforced by the expertise of Figure’s team, which includes professionals from esteemed institutions such as Boston Dynamics and DeepMind. Corey Lynch, a pivotal figure in Figure’s AI development, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments on social media, highlighting the rapid advancements in humanoid-robot interaction.
