Agility Robotics Trims Staff Amid Focus on Commercialization Efforts

Agility Robotics recently confirmed that it has implemented a small number of layoffs as part of its strategic focus on commercialization efforts. The Oregon-based company, known for its bipedal robot Digit, stated that the job cuts were targeted at roles not central to core product development and commercialization.

In a statement provided to TechCrunch, Agility emphasized its commitment to meeting the increasing demand for bipedal robots in various industrial applications. The company plans to prioritize ramping up production of Digit while continuing to attract top-tier global customers. Additionally, Agility intends to create new roles that align with its goals of productization, commercialization, and production of Digit.

Agility Robotics initially gained attention for its bipedal robot Digit, which emerged from research conducted at Oregon State University. While the company received early support from Ford for exploring Digit’s potential in last-mile delivery, it later shifted focus to applications in understaffed warehouses.

Despite broader trends of slowdown in investments and adoption of robotic systems, Agility has secured substantial funding, including a $150 million Series B round two years ago. Notably, Amazon participated in this round through its Industrial Innovation Fund, leading to pilot programs involving Digits in fulfillment center workflows. Although these pilots have concluded, the next steps for collaboration between Agility and Amazon have not been disclosed.

The landscape of humanoid robotics continues to evolve, with other companies announcing their own pilot programs. For instance, Figure has partnered with BMW, and Apptronik has collaborated with Mercedes. Agility Robotics showcased updates to Digit’s end effectors tailored for automotive manufacturing workflows at the recent Modex event, indicating the company’s ongoing efforts to adapt its technology for various industries.