Apptronik, an Austin-based humanoid robotics startup, has secured $350 million in Series A funding, co-led by B Capital and Capital Factory.
Google’s DeepMind also participated in the round and has partnered with Apptronik to advance AI-powered robotic behavior models for bipedal robots.
Building Practical Humanoid Robots for Industry
The journey began in 2013 at the University of Texas at Austin, where its team worked on NASA’s Valkyrie humanoid robot. Since then, the company has developed several iterations of humanoids, including its latest model, Apollo.
The funding will help the company:
- Scale production of its humanoid robots
- Expand pilot programs with enterprise partners
- Enhance AI-driven robotic learning through its collaboration with DeepMind
CEO Jeff Cardenas highlighted the company’s focus:
“2025 is about proving that humanoid robots can perform real-world industrial tasks. True commercialization and scaling will begin in 2026 and beyond.”
Advertisement
AI-Powered Robotics with Google DeepMind
The DeepMind partnership allows Apptronik to integrate cutting-edge AI models into humanoid robots, improving their ability to learn, adapt, and perform tasks autonomously.
This approach mirrors trends in the humanoid robotics space, where:
- Boston Dynamics partnered with The Robotics & AI Institute
- Figure AI and 1X secured backing from OpenAI to develop AI-powered humanoids
Enterprise Adoption: Logistics and Manufacturing
Apptronik is conducting pilot programs with companies like Mercedes-Benz and GXO Logistics, focusing on:
- Factory automation (tote-moving and repetitive assembly tasks)
- Warehouse logistics (inventory management and material transport)
Competitors such as Tesla Optimus (Tesla), Digit (Agility Robotics), and BMW-backed Figure AI are also targeting industrial automation, where humanoid robots can address labor shortages and improve efficiency.
Future Vision: Humanoids in Everyday Life
While factories and warehouses are the immediate focus, Apptronik envisions a future where humanoid robots assist with:
- Home tasks (groceries, cooking, laundry)
- Elder care (supporting aging populations with mobility and daily activities)
However, cost remains a barrier. The firm aims to reduce Apollo’s price to under $50,000, making it more accessible for commercial and consumer applications.
Looking Ahead
With a decade of humanoid robotics expertise, a Google DeepMind partnership, and $350 million in fresh capital, Apptronik is positioning itself as a leader in practical, scalable humanoid robotics—paving the way for widespread adoption in both industry and daily life.ship in compliance automation, offering companies a unified platform for security, trust, and risk management.
