Nvidia-Backed Figure Shows Humanoid Robot As Elon Musk Questions If It's Truly Autonomous

Figure AI, a company making humanoid robots, backed by the likes of Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:NVDA), released a new video showing its Helix 02 Robot carrying out domestic chores that led to Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musk questioning whether the robot was being remotely operated.

Elon Musk Questions Autonomous Operations

In a post shared by influencer Sawyer Merritt on X on Monday, the Helix 02 Robot can be seen clearing and cleaning a table, followed by it picking up toys, as well as neatly arranging the cushions on the couch and turning off the TV.

Responding to Merritt's post, Musk shared his views on the video. "Autonomously or remotely operated?" he asked in his response.

Figure AI CEO Responds

Musk's question was answered by Figure AI founder and CEO Brett Adcock, who also co-founded Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:ACHR) in 2018. Adcock confirmed that the Robot was operating autonomously and there were no remote operators controlling it. "Fully autonomous," Adcock said in his response, quoting Musk's question.

Questions About Optimus' Autonomous Operations

The news comes as questions have been raised by critics about Optimus's autonomous operations, as a video from December last year showcased what appeared to be the robot taking off a headset before it fell onto the ground, seemingly depowered.

Tesla also showcased the Optimus Robot running across the floor, as well as showcasing the Robot performing martial arts movements alongside an expert. Musk had claimed that the moves were all AI and the Optimus unit wasn't teleoperated.

Humanoid AGI, Competitors Emerge

Musk also recently shared that Tesla would be the first company to develop AGI in a humanoid form, touting its Optimus robot, which Musk says could become the first-ever von Neumann probe and help humanity colonize other planets.

Meanwhile, Xiaomi Corp (OTC:XIACY) (OTC:XIACF) recently shared that it deployed humanoid robots in its EV assembly plant, successfully achieving over 3 hours of autonomous operations.

Elsewhere, Xpeng Inc. (NYSE:XPEV) announced establishing a facility in Guangzhou, China, to target large-scale production of its IRON humanoid robot by the end of 2026.

According to Benzinga Edge Rankings, Tesla scores well on the Momentum and Quality metrics. Tesla also offers a favorable price trend in the Long term.

Price Action: TSLA gained 0.49% to $398.68 at Market close on Monday, but slid 0.47% to $396.80 during overnight trading.

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