Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos, alongside Nvidia and several other prominent technology giants, is reportedly throwing its weight behind startup Figure AI, which specializes in the development of human-like robots. Bloomberg News, citing sources familiar with the matter, disclosed this investment trend on Friday.

 

According to the report, Figure AI, supported by ChatGPT creator OpenAI and Microsoft, is in the midst of securing approximately $675 million in a funding round. This round comes with a pre-money valuation estimated at around $2 billion, indicating significant investor confidence in the startup's potential.

 

Bezos, through his investment firm Explore Investments LLC, has committed a substantial $100 million to Figure AI, underscoring his interest in cutting-edge AI technologies. Microsoft is also making a hefty investment of $95 million in the venture. Additionally, both Nvidia and an Amazon-affiliated fund are contributing $50 million each, further bolstering the startup's financial backing.

 

The surge in investments in artificial intelligence startups can be attributed to the meteoric rise of OpenAI's ChatGPT, which has garnered widespread attention since its launch in November 2022. Investors see these startups as potential disruptors in the AI landscape, capable of outpacing larger competitors, thus driving increased funding into the sector.

 

OpenAI, having previously considered acquiring Figure AI, is reported to be investing $5 million in the startup, further cementing its involvement in shaping the future of AI-driven robotics.

 

The lineup of backers extends beyond the tech titans, with Intel's venture capital arm, LG Innotek, and Samsung's investment group also participating in the funding round. Additionally, venture firms Parkway Venture Capital and Align Ventures have thrown their support behind Figure AI, signaling broad industry confidence in the startup's vision and capabilities.

 

Further investment contributions have come from ARK Venture Fund, Aliya Capital Partners, and Tamarack, adding to the diverse pool of investors fueling Figure AI's growth trajectory.

 

Despite Bloomberg's attempts to seek comments from key stakeholders, including Amazon, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Intel, these companies opted not to provide any statements. Similarly, Figure AI and other entities mentioned in the report did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment, suggesting a level of confidentiality surrounding the investment activities.

 

Last year, Figure AI, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, made headlines by securing $70 million in its initial external funding round, led by Parkway Venture Capital. The startup specializes in developing humanoid robots with versatile capabilities, designed to operate across various environments and perform a wide range of tasks, from warehouse logistics to retail operations.

 

As Figure AI continues to attract significant investment interest, it underscores the growing importance of AI-driven robotics in shaping the future of industries and everyday life. With major players like Bezos, Nvidia, and Microsoft backing the startup, Figure AI appears poised for substantial growth and innovation in the years ahead.