US humanoid robot hands out swag before Christmas using advanced brain

The article highlights a recent demonstration of Figure AI’s humanoid robot, Figure 03, showcased by CEO Brett Adcock in a video posted just before Christmas. The robot, powered by the company’s proprietary Helix Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model, demonstrated its ability to answer questions about its origin and capabilities, as well as perform practical tasks such as visually recognizing and handing over medium and large-sized shirts correctly. Figure 03 represents the latest generation of Figure AI’s humanoids, featuring advanced visual recognition, smoother coordination, and a softer, safer design compared to its predecessors. Despite its impressive task execution and conversational abilities, the robot exhibited a noticeable speech latency of 2 to 3 seconds per response, which drew mixed reactions from viewers and highlighted an ongoing challenge in humanoid robotics—making interactions feel natural and fluid. Released in October, Figure 03 is smaller and lighter than earlier models, equipped with enhanced audio clarity, wireless charging through coils in its feet, and a five