According to the tech media The Information, ChatGPT developer OpenAI is exploring the development of its own humanoid robot.
Although OpenAI closed its robotics division in 2021, the company has been actively investing in the robotics field in recent years. Currently, OpenAI has invested in three robotics companies: Figure, 1X, and Physical Intelligence. Among them, Figure AI, established in 2020, focuses on autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots, with its latest product, Figure02, already in use in warehouse operations.
Image Source Note: Image generated by AI, image licensed from Midjourney
It is noteworthy that OpenAI's recently released flagship model O3 has set new highs in reasoning and understanding, surpassing human levels for the first time in AGI tests. These AI technological advantages provide strong support for its entry into the physical robotics field. Currently, all three robotics companies invested by OpenAI are using GPT-based visual, speech, and graphical neural network systems.
However, industry insiders point out that if OpenAI officially enters robotics research and development, it may face numerous challenges. In addition to needing to catch up in a highly competitive market, there could be potential conflicts of interest with existing investment companies. Furthermore, there are significant differences between hardware manufacturing and software development, and the synergy between the two still needs to be validated.
If OpenAI indeed reopens its robotics division, it is expected to quickly address its hardware R&D shortcomings through high-value acquisitions. Considering the impact the company had on the industry after opening its API last year, its entry into the robotics field could bring new variables to the entire industry ecosystem.
