US startup Apptronik raises $350 mln to create humanoid robotssUS startup Apptronik raises 350 mln to create humanoid robots

US startup Apptronik raises $350 mln to create humanoid robotssUS startup Apptronik raises 350 mln to create humanoid robots

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Apollo, the humanoid robot built by Apptronik, Inc. at Austin, Texas, US. Photo: Reuters/Evan Garcia/File photo
US-based robotics firmApptronik has secured $350 million in a recent funding round, spearheaded by B Capital and Capital Factory, with additional backing from Google’s parent company Alphabet. As per a report by Reuters, the funding will be used to scale production of the company’s humanoid robot, Apollo, which is designed to automate tasks in supply chains, such as moving packages in warehouses and manufacturing facilities.The investment places Apptronik alongside other robotics players, such as Tesla and Nvidia-backed Figure AI, in the rapidly evolving field of humanoid robotics, states the report. With AI advancements at the forefront, these companies are racing to develop robots capable of performing increasingly complex tasks. Elon Musk’s Tesla, for instance, has made significant strides in its Optimus robot, which is intended to assist with household chores.

As per Reuters, ApptronikCEO Jeff Cardenas described the funding as a pivotal moment for the robotics industry, likening it to the rapid growth seen in large language models (LLMs) in 2023. He pointed to 2025 as a key year for robotics, anticipating major developments in the field.Apptronik aims to extend Apollo’s use beyond logistics, with plans to explore applications in sectors like healthcare and elder care. The company has also confirmed partnerships with Google DeepMind’s robotics team, automotive giant Mercedes-Benz, and logistics firm GXO. However, details regarding these commercial agreements remain under wraps, adds the report.