Figure AI Breaks Away from OpenAI to Build Its Own AI
Humanoid robot developer Figure AI has officially ended its collaboration with OpenAI, shifting its focus to an independent AI strategy. Brett Adcock, the company’s founder, stated that this decision was driven by a major technological breakthrough that Figure achieved internally. The company claims it will unveil a game-changing innovation within the next month—one that will surpass current industry standards.
Adcock emphasized that Figure’s new approach centers on deep integration between software and hardware. Unlike OpenAI, which develops general AI models like ChatGPT, Figure AI is focusing on robotics-specific intelligence, optimized for real-world interactions.
Why Figure AI Chose to Go Solo
Initially, Figure partnered with OpenAI to incorporate AI models into its humanoid robots. However, Adcock and his team realized that OpenAI’s technology, designed primarily for text-based applications, lacked the adaptability needed for physical interaction.
“To build robots that function effectively in real-life scenarios, AI must be designed alongside the hardware,” Adcock explained. Instead of relying on external AI providers, Figure is developing a fully integrated system, ensuring seamless communication between robotic hardware and intelligence.
This approach mirrors Apple’s business model, where in-house chip and software development allows for tighter optimization and performance. Figure AI believes that a similar strategy will give it a competitive edge in humanoid robotics.
Figure AI’s Bold Bet on Vertical Integration
The company has the financial backing to pursue this ambitious vision. In 2024, Figure AI secured $675 million in funding, bringing its total valuation to $2.6 billion. Since its founding, Figure has amassed $1.5 billion in investments, allowing it to push forward with independent AI development.
While many robotics companies rely on AI partnerships—such as Boston Dynamics collaborating with Toyota Research Institute—Figure is taking a different route. The company believes full control over both AI and robotics is necessary to achieve meaningful breakthroughs.
The rise of new AI players like DeepSeek, which has demonstrated faster and more cost-effective AI development, has also challenged OpenAI’s dominance. This shift has encouraged companies like Figure to consider self-reliance in AI innovation.
Meanwhile, OpenAI remains active in humanoid robotics, having invested in Norwegian startup 1X, which focuses on household robots. However, Figure AI is targeting commercial applications, setting it apart from OpenAI’s vision.
What’s Next for Figure AI?
With a new office in San Francisco’s Bay Area, Figure AI is scaling up its team and preparing to reveal a major breakthrough within 30 days. If successful, this could redefine the future of humanoid robotics, proving that independent AI development is the key to creating truly intelligent machines.
