Apptronik, a Texas-based robotics developer founded in 2016, has announced a substantial $350 million Series A funding round. The round includes participation from Google and is co-led by B Capital and Capital Factory. This injection of capital will enable the company to scale its artificial intelligence robotics development and bring its innovative humanoid robots into the industrial sector and potentially into homes around the world.
Apptronik has been at the forefront of robotics, developing 15 robotic systems, including NASA’s renowned humanoid robot Valkyrie. The company has also partnered with industry giants like NASA and Nvidia to create robots that rival those of Elon Musk’s Tesla Optimus. Furthermore, Apptronik collaborates with Google DeepMind to advance the AI driving their cutting-edge robotics technology.
Focus on Industrial Applications and Future Plans for Home Use
The funding will be used to accelerate the production of Apptronik’s groundbreaking humanoid robot, Apollo, designed specifically for industrial applications. The company’s CEO, Jeff Cardenas, expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of this funding, emphasizing the goal of getting robots “out into the world in a pretty big way.” Cardenas envisions a future where these robots are sold at a price point comparable to that of a car.
“The target price is for these robots to be less than the price of a car, so we’ve been working over the years, we’re on our ninth iteration of human robot,” – Jeff Cardenas
Goldman Sachs projects that the global market for humanoid robots could reach $38 billion by 2035. Apptronik is positioning itself as a leader in this burgeoning market by training their robots separately on repetitive tasks before integrating them into human environments. This strategic approach ensures that their robots are both adaptable and highly functional for industrial and domestic use.
“I think we’re right there in the race,” – Jeff Cardenas
Apptronik’s ambition extends beyond industrial applications. The company aims to introduce its versatile robots into households in the future, leveraging AI to enhance their functionality. Cardenas highlighted how AI is transforming robotics by making them increasingly versatile.
“What’s happening in robotics is robots, with the power of AI, are becoming much more versatile,” – Jeff Cardenas
Author’s Opinion
Apptronik’s ambitious approach to humanoid robotics reflects a crucial shift in how AI and robotics will intersect in the coming years. With significant backing and a clear focus on both industrial and household applications, the company is poised to redefine the role of robots in daily life. While challenges remain in scaling and affordability, the potential impact of Apptronik’s robots is undeniable, especially as AI advances and robotics become more integrated into human environments.
Featured image credit: catalyststuff via Freepik
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