Figure aims to bring its humanoid robots into homes sooner than expected. CEO Brett Adcock announced that the company will begin “alpha testing” its Figure 02 robot in home settings in late 2025. This accelerated timeline is driven by the company’s Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model, called Helix, which speeds up the robot’s learning process.
Helix Accelerates Robot Learning
Helix processes visual data and natural language input, allowing robots to learn new tasks faster. Figure recently shifted away from its partnership with OpenAI to focus on proprietary models like Helix. Videos show robots handling household tasks, including food preparation, with Helix coordinating two robots working on a single task together.
Balancing Home and Industrial Use
Despite home ambitions, Figure — like many competitors — initially focused оn industrial settings. In early 2024, the company started piloting humanoid systems at a BMW plant іn South Carolina. Factories and warehouses provide a more controlled environment for testing, making them a logical first step.
The Challenge of Home Environments
Other companies, like Apptronik and Tesla, are also exploring home robotics. These systems could assist aging populations, helping people live independently. However, homes pose unique challenges, with unpredictable layouts, stairs, pets, and varied lighting. Norwegian startup 1X is one of the few prioritizing home robotics despite these obstacles.
What to Expect in 2025
Figure’s home plans for 2025 are still evolving, and “alpha testing” suggests an early experimental phase. While large-scale adoption may be years away, these initial tests mark a critical step toward bringing humanoid robots into everyday life.
