Physical Intelligence is an American startup specialising in the development of intelligent domestic robots. Its aim is to develop robots capable of performing complex household tasks by imitating human actions.

The firm's latest creation is a robot capable of recognising and handling a wide range of objects. Its code name is pi-zero. It can now take clothes out of the dryer and fold them correctly, for example, or clear a table by sorting dishes and throwing away trash. In addition, it can fold cardboard packaging or put eggs into a box. In all cases, the actions are mastered and the results are impressive. Now, all that's left for this robot to do is iron the laundry and wash the dishes, and it could become the perfect household helper.

In theory, this prototype is capable of sorting laundry according to colour or fabric type, determined by high-resolution cameras and sophisticated algorithms. Its articulated arms and precise grippers enable it to handle clothes delicately, without damaging them. Built-in AI enables the robot to plan its actions, make decisions in real time and adapt to different situations. So when an object is deliberately moved, it can find it again instantly.

Previously, the startup had developed a number of prototypes, which remained relatively limited. This new robot, however, could change the game. Physical Intelligence's aim is now to be able to program its robot for specific uses, a further step towards the development of truly versatile models.

Physical Intelligence recently raised US$400mil towards a valuation of US$2.4bil . Investors include Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, as well as the organisation behind ChatGPT, OpenAI.

Physical Intelligence is not the only robotics startup to collaborate with OpenAI. Norwegian company 1X Technologies has already demonstrated that it is now possible for humanoid robots to perform several tasks in succession by responding to instructions given orally by humans. The same goes for Figure, one of whose robots can describe objects placed in front of it, or stack dishes in a draining rack.

 - AFP Relaxnews