Figure drops OpenAI in favor of in-house models

Figure AI, a company striving to introduce general-purpose humanoid robots for both commercial and residential applications, announced on X that it is ending its collaboration with OpenAI in favor of its own in-house AI development. The Bay Area-based robotics firm cited a “major breakthrough” in AI as the primary reason for this shift. While details remain scarce, founder and CEO Brett Adcock assured Techfulnews that Figure AI will unveil a groundbreaking humanoid AI advancement within the next 30 days.

Strategic Shift Away from OpenAI

OpenAI has played a notable role in Figure AI’s journey, previously collaborating on next-generation AI models for humanoid robots. In 2023, Figure AI secured $675 million in funding, bringing its valuation to $2.6 billion. To date, the company has raised $1.5 billion from investors, highlighting the immense financial backing behind its ambitious projects.

The decision to sever ties with OpenAI is unexpected, given the latter’s dominant position in artificial intelligence. Simply being associated with OpenAI typically offers companies a significant visibility boost. Just last August, Figure AI confirmed that its Figure 02 humanoid would utilize OpenAI’s models for natural language interactions.

The Challenge of Integration

Despite OpenAI’s expertise in AI-driven applications, Adcock pointed out that the integration process posed serious challenges. OpenAI operates on a massive scale, focusing primarily on general AI applications rather than embodied AI, which integrates artificial intelligence into physical systems such as robots. According to Adcock, vertical integration is the key to successfully scaling humanoid robotics.

“To solve embodied AI at scale in the real world, you have to vertically integrate robot AI,” Adcock told Techfullnews. “We can’t outsource AI for the same reason we can’t outsource our hardware.”

OpenAI’s Expanding Interest in Humanoid Robotics

Interestingly, OpenAI has been diversifying its investments in humanoid technology. The company is a major backer of 1X, a Norwegian robotics startup that focuses on humanoids for home applications. While many humanoid robot firms target industrial and warehouse automation, 1X has pivoted toward residential use cases.

Furthermore, OpenAI’s latest trademark application, filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), suggests an interest in humanoid robotics. The filing references “user-programmable humanoid robots” and “humanoid robots with communication and learning capabilities”, fueling speculation that OpenAI might be developing its own hardware.

Figure AI’s Focus: Industry Over Homes

Although Figure AI has explored residential applications for its robots, its primary focus remains industrial deployments. This strategy aligns with automakers’ greater financial resources for testing and implementing emerging technologies. BMW, for example, began deploying Figure robots at its South Carolina factory in 2023, marking a significant milestone for the company.

The Competitive Landscape: Proprietary AI vs. Partnerships

The robotics industry remains divided on whether to develop proprietary AI models or rely on external partnerships. While Figure AI is doubling down on in-house development, other leading humanoid firms continue collaborating with AI specialists.

For instance, Boston Dynamics has partnered with the Toyota Research Institute to enhance its Atlas humanoid robot with advanced AI capabilities. The approach mirrors Apple’s vertically integrated ecosystem, where software is optimized specifically for proprietary hardware. However, achieving seamless hardware-software synergy is both complex and resource-intensive.

The Road Ahead for Figure AI

With its deep financial backing, Figure AI has been able to rapidly scale its hardware and software teams, recently relocating to a larger Bay Area office to accommodate its growth. The company’s shift away from OpenAI marks a pivotal moment in its mission to redefine humanoid robotics through proprietary AI models.

The next 30 days will be crucial, as Figure AI promises to showcase a technological advancement that has never been seen on a humanoid robot. If successful, this move could position the company as a leader in the humanoid robotics space, setting a new standard for vertically integrated AI-powered robots.

In Chrome, Google is extending Gemini and allowing it to perform tasks for you

Xbox Copilot from Microsoft is now available on Windows 11 PCs globally

After a five-year hiatus, Fortnite is back on the US App Store

A program is launched by Meta to promote the adoption of their Llama AI models by companies

News

Google just updated its “G” logo

by George Mensah 2025-05-14

Google has introduced a refreshed version of its iconic multicolored “G” logo, marking the first significant update in nearly a decade. This subtle yet impactful redesign transitions the familiar red, yellow, green, and blue hues into a seamless gradient, aligning with modern design trends and the company’s evolving visual identity.

A Modern Twist on a Classic Brand Symbol

The new gradient “G” logo was first spotted in an update to the Google app on iOS and Pixel devices, as reported by 9to5Google. Unlike the previous version, which featured distinct color blocks, the updated design blends the four primary colors smoothly, creating a more dynamic and contemporary look.

This change follows Google’s last major logo overhaul in September 2015, when the company shifted to a sans-serif typeface and introduced a simplified “G” emblem that retained its signature color scheme. While the latest update is more understated, it reflects Google’s ongoing commitment to a cohesive and forward-thinking brand aesthetic.

Why the Gradient Shift? Aligning with Google’s Broader Design Language

The new gradient treatment isn’t just a stylistic choice—it’s a strategic alignment with Google’s broader design philosophy. Notably, the updated “G” now mirrors the gradient used in the Gemini logo (Google’s AI-powered assistant), reinforcing brand consistency across products.

Key Observations About the Logo Update:

Currently Limited Rollout: The gradient “G” is only visible on iOS and Pixel phones as of now. The traditional block-colored version remains on the web and most Android devices.
Subtle Yet Meaningful: While the change may seem minor, it signals Google’s focus on modernization and adaptability in its branding.
Potential Wider Implementation: If this update follows Google’s past patterns, we may see the gradient logo expand to other platforms soon.

What This Means for Google’s Brand Identity

Google’s logo evolution reflects its commitment to innovation while maintaining brand recognition. The gradient effect adds a touch of sophistication, making the logo feel more integrated with today’s digital design trends.

Why This Matters for Users & Marketers:

Visual Continuity: A unified logo style strengthens brand recall.
Adaptive Design: The gradient may hint at future design changes across Google’s ecosystem.
AI & Brand Synergy: The resemblance to Gemini’s logo suggests deeper integration of AI into Google’s identity.

Final Thoughts: A Sign of More Changes to Come?

While this logo tweak is subtle, it could be the beginning of a broader refresh for Google’s visual branding. As the company continues to innovate—especially in AI and machine learning—its logo may evolve further to represent its cutting-edge advancements.

For now, users can spot the new gradient “G” on select devices, keeping an eye out for potential expansions to other platforms. One thing is clear: Google remains deliberate in its branding, ensuring every change serves a purpose.

News

Without the Google search agreement, Firefox may be gone, according to an executive

by George Mensah 2025-05-04

The future of Mozilla Firefox hangs in the balance as the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) pushes for sweeping restrictions on Google’s search monopoly. Eric Muhlheim, Mozilla’s Chief Financial Officer, testified in court that the proposed remedies—including banning Google from paying to be the default search engine in third-party browsers—could devastate Firefox’s revenue and potentially force it out of business.

Why Firefox’s Survival Is at Risk

Firefox, the only major browser not controlled by a tech giant, relies heavily on its partnership with Google. According to Muhlheim:

90% of Mozilla’s revenue comes from Firefox.
85% of that revenue is tied to its Google search deal.

If the court enforces the DOJ’s demands, Mozilla would face immediate financial turmoil, leading to deep cuts in engineering, innovation, and user experience improvements. This could trigger a “downward spiral”, making Firefox less competitive and accelerating its decline.

The Domino Effect on Web Competition

The Loss of Gecko: A Threat to an Open Web

Firefox’s Gecko engine is the only independent browser engine not owned by Apple (WebKit) or Google (Chromium). If Firefox collapses:

Big Tech’s control over the web grows stronger—exactly what antitrust regulators are trying to prevent.
Fewer choices for users—reducing competition in browser innovation and privacy features.
Less funding for Mozilla’s nonprofit initiatives, including open-source web tools and AI-driven climate research.

Why Switching to Bing (or Another Search Engine) Isn’t a Viable Solution

Mozilla has explored alternatives, but the reality is grim:

Bing doesn’t monetize searches as effectively as Google, meaning lower revenue share for Mozilla.
Past experiments with Yahoo as the default led to mass user abandonment.
Without Google’s bids, Mozilla would have less leverage in negotiations, further reducing income.

The DOJ’s Dilemma: Fixing Google’s Monopoly Without Killing Competitors

The DOJ’s goal is noble—breaking Google’s stranglehold on search—but the unintended consequences could be catastrophic. If Firefox disappears:

✅ Google Chrome’s dominance grows—fewer competitors mean less incentive for privacy and performance improvements.
✅ Apple’s Safari remains the only alternative, further consolidating power in the hands of tech giants.
✅ Innovation suffers—Firefox has been a pioneer in privacy features like Enhanced Tracking Protection.

Can Mozilla Survive Without Google’s Money?

Muhlheim’s testimony paints a bleak picture:

“We would be really struggling to stay alive… waiting on a hypothetical future where more search competitors emerge.”

The harsh truth? Regulators must act carefully—if they dismantle Google’s monopoly too aggressively, they might inadvertently strengthen it by eliminating its biggest rival.

The Path Forward: Balancing Antitrust Enforcement & Browser Survival

To preserve a diverse, competitive web, regulators should consider:

Phasing out Google’s default deals gradually—giving Mozilla time to adapt.
Mandating revenue-sharing transparency—ensuring fair competition in search monetization.
Supporting independent browsers—through grants or antitrust settlement funds.

Final Thoughts: Why Firefox’s Survival Matters

Firefox is more than just a browser—it’s a guardian of an open, decentralized internet. If it falls, the web becomes a duopoly of Google and Apple, with fewer choices for users and developers.

The DOJ’s case against Google is necessary, but the remedy must protect competitors, not destroy them. Otherwise, the cure could be worse than the disease.

Load More Posts