OpenAI, the artificial intelligence research laboratory, is reportedly revisiting its plans to develop a humanoid robot, according to sources familiar with the matter. This move signals the company's ambition to extend its reach beyond its highly successful generative AI models like ChatGPT.

While the company had previously explored the idea of creating a humanoid robot a few years ago, it shelved the project in 2021 to focus on ChatGPT, which was launched in November 2022. That same year, OpenAI also closed its robotics division, as reported by The Information.

However, according to two individuals with direct knowledge of the matter, OpenAI has recently decided to revive this ambitious project. In recent months, the company has invested in other firms working on humanoid robotics, such as Figure and 1X, as well as Physical Intelligence, a "general-purpose AI" company.

If OpenAI proceeds with its plans, it will need to catch up in both hardware development and the AI systems that power these robots. Other companies like Boston Dynamics and Tesla have already made significant strides in creating advanced humanoid robots capable of human-like behavior and interaction with their environment.

This development marks a significant shift in OpenAI's focus, as it ventures into the realm of physical robotics while continuing to innovate in the field of AI. The company's entry into the humanoid robotics market is expected to intensify competition and drive further advancements in this rapidly evolving field.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]