UPS discusses with startup figure AI, deploys humanoid robots

United Parcel Service Inc. is in discussion with Robotics startup figure AI Inc., and people familiar with the issue say that it uses humanoid robots for several tasks in the logistics giant network.

UPS and Figure began debating the partnership last year and have been in discussions for the past few months, people who asked that details would not be identified as private.

The exact function that the humanoid in the diagram handles for the UPS remains unknown. The startup suggested a partnership with a logistics company in February,90 Seconds VideoAbove x This revealed a sophisticated 5-foot-6-inch robot standing next to a conveyor belt, picking and sorting small compartments.

More and more startups and large tech companies are taking advantage of recent advances in artificial intelligence technology and developing robots that look like people. Figures have emerged as one of the group’s most prominent startups. The company has been in talks with investors to raise $1.5 billion at a valuation of $39.5 billion, BloombergIt has been reportedFebruary. Recently, some people have questioned whether a person has itExaggerationScope of working with customer BMW AG.

In a statement, UPS said it would not discuss “specific or potential vendor partners,” adding that it would “regularly explore and deploy a wide range of technologies, including robots.” Representatives in the figure declined to comment.

In recent years, UPS has increased its automation efforts. The company deploys fixed robot arms and AI-driven software at high-tech speed facilities. UPS tooWe are affiliated with Dexterity Inc.A startup industrial robot that can provide finesse like a human.

This story was originally introduced Fortune.com