Physical AI is an emerging frontier where artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrated with physical systems, enabling them to interact with and manipulate the real world. This technology stands at the cutting edge of innovation, driving significant advancements in robotics, automation, and human-machine collaboration.
Companies at the forefront of this field are developing AI-powered solutions across diverse sectors—from humanoid robots addressing labor shortages to autonomous systems enhancing defense capabilities.
By empowering machines to perceive, reason, and act, these startups are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and adaptability in environments ranging from warehouses to healthcare facilities. As physical AI continues to advance, it is poised to transform industry operations and redefine human-technology interactions.
Here are some noteworthy physical AI startups to watch in the U.S. in 2024:
Figure
Founder & CEO: Brett Adcock
Funding: $675M – Series B
Figure is developing advanced humanoid robots for general-purpose work. Founded by Brett Adcock in 2022, the company aims to create autonomous bipedal robots that can perform a wide range of physical tasks in human environments. Figure’s robots are designed to address labor shortages and boost productivity across industries.
Anduril Industries
Co-Founder & CEO: Brian Schimpf
Funding: $2.8 billion
Anduril Industries, co-founded by Brian Schimpf, focuses on defense technology using AI and robotics. The company develops autonomous systems, drones, and sensor networks for military and border security applications. Anduril’s products include the Ghost autonomous drone and the Lattice AI-powered command and control system.
covariant.ai
Co-Founder & CEO: Peter Chen
Funding: $75M – Series C
Covariant.ai specializes in AI-powered robotic systems for warehouse automation and logistics. The company’s AI software enables robots to adapt to new objects and tasks without reprogramming, making them suitable for complex picking and sorting operations in e-commerce fulfillment centers.
Embodied, Inc.
Founder & CEO: Paolo Pirjanian
Funding: $19.2M
Embodied, Inc., founded by Paolo Pirjanian, creates socially intelligent robots for human interaction. Their flagship product, Moxie, is an AI-powered companion robot designed to support children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development through engaging conversations and activities.
Diligent Robotics Inc
Co-Founder & CEO: Andrea L. Thomaz
Funding: $ 33.7M
Diligent Robotics, co-founded by Andrea L. Thomaz, develops AI-powered service robots for healthcare settings. Their main product, Moxi, is a mobile robot assistant that helps hospital staff with routine, non-patient-facing tasks, allowing healthcare workers to focus more on patient care.
Robust.AI.
Co-founder & CEO: Anthony Jules
Funding: $20M – Series A
Robust.AI, co-founded by Anthony Jules, is working on developing cognitive engines for robots to enhance their adaptability and decision-making capabilities. The company aims to create more flexible and intelligent robotic systems that can operate safely and effectively alongside humans in various environments.
Dexterity Inc.
Founder & CEO: Samir Menon
Funding: $140M – Series B
Dexterity Inc., founded by Samir Menon, focuses on AI-powered robotic systems for logistics and supply chain operations. Their robots are designed to handle complex manipulation tasks in warehouses and distribution centers, using advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms to adapt to different objects and environments.
Chef Robotics
Founder & CEO: Rajat Bhageria
Funding: $22.5M-Seed
Chef Robotics, founded by Rajat Bhageria, is developing AI-powered robotic systems for food preparation and cooking. The company aims to automate various aspects of commercial kitchens, from ingredient handling to meal assembly, using advanced robotics and machine learning technologies.
