UPS is exploring a game-changing tech upgrade: humanoid robots. The logistics giant is in active talks with Figure AI, a robotics startup backed by Microsoft, to integrate these robots into its operations, according to sources familiar with the matter.
This move signals a major evolution in UPS’s automation strategy, expanding beyond robotic arms to more advanced, mobile AI-powered systems.
“We regularly explore and deploy a wide range of technologies, including robotics,” UPS said in a statement, without naming Figure.
What’s happening
Figure’s humanoid robot, showcased in a viral February video, was seen sorting parcels beside a conveyor belt, hinting at real-world warehouse tasks. Standing 5’6”, it’s built for environments designed for humans.
Our first customer use case took 12 months, our second customer use case took just 30 days
Helix learned high-rate logistics with a single neural network
On Sunday, we successfully validated this on-site at the customer pic.twitter.com/ev5OeSEhly
— Figure (@Figure_robot) February 26, 2025
The exact scope of UPS’s potential deployment remains under wraps, but ongoing talks suggest growing momentum.
UPS has been ramping up tech investments, spending around $1B annually on automation and AI to cut costs and boost efficiency.
Past moves include:
- AI-powered ORION routing system, saving 10M miles per year
- EDGE and Network Planning Tools saving hundreds of millions
- Partnerships with Dexterity Inc. for “human-like” robotic arms
The why
UPS, and the logistics industry at large, is battling chronic labor shortages. About 76% of logistics businesses report staffing gaps. Humanoid robots offer a scalable fix, performing tasks with dexterity that traditional systems can’t handle.
What’s next
Experts see humanoid robots going mainstream in logistics within 5–10 years. UPS’s early move could give it a significant edge, especially as Figure seeks $1.5B in funding at a $39.5B valuation.
If UPS goes all-in on humanoid robots, it could redefine warehouse work, and set a precedent for the future of global logistics.
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