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With the advancement of AI, other technological sectors have been going through rapid change, and robotics is among them. Recently, the Bay Area startup, Figure, announced its plans for commencing. Once this test is done, users can take Figure 02 to their homes by late 2025.
In recent times, Figure has witnessed a rapid advancement, and in this prosperity, a major contribution goes to the proprietary AI system, Helix. CEO Brett Adcock emphasized that Helix's development has outpaced expectations, enabling the company to fast-track domestic deployment.
Central to this initiative is Helix, Figure's Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model. It was designed to process visual data and natural language inputs; therefore, Helix allows Figure 02 to understand and execute a wide range of household tasks. With these abilities, this robot can adapt to new responsibilities without extensive reprogramming. Most importantly, using Helix will significantly improve the efficiency of complex works, as it can coordinate multiple robots working collaboratively.
Initially, when Figure 02 was released, it was supposed to be an industrial robot, exclusively restricted for industrial purposes. However, the decision to prioritize home integration is a strategic shift. Earlier in 2024, Figure tested humanoid systems at a BMW plant in South Carolina. That test demonstrated the robots' proficiency in structured, repetitive tasks within controlled environments. The success of Helix has now opened more dynamic settings for the company to expand its business.
The most challenging part here is to transform humanoid robots from industrial settings to homes. These two environments are completely distinct, and most importantly, while the industries have a set work pattern, in homes, the work patterns are random and completely unpredictable. Therefore, Figure 02 has to run various types of work, from taking care of pets to controlling the lights of the house. These works require advanced perception and decision-making capabilities, where Helix is expected to excel.
While taking robots home, safety and reliability are the major concerns, and that’s the reason why Figure has planned to conduct rigorous alpha testing to ensure that Figure 02 can fit inside the home environment safely. As per the reports, when the alpha test begins, the initial stages will include simple tasks like tidying spaces, food preparation, and basic assistance. As things progress and the robots respond properly to the commands, complex activities will be assigned to them. This approach is taken to make sure user safety isn’t neglected while going for comfort.
The implications of introducing humanoid robots into domestic spheres are bigger than one can imagine. Beyond doing the everyday household work, these robots can be companions and assistants to people who are physically challenged or terminally ill. These robots will help improve their quality of life. Anyway, the unregulated use of these robots may cause serious harm as well. However, everything about Figure 02 is dependent on how the alpha test goes.
