Faraday Future's robotics arm, FF EAI Robotics Ecosystem (FFR), unveiled two new humanoid robots on 15 October. The flagship FF Nova carries a $2,490 price tag and targets developers, universities, and schools, while the FF Nova Mini at $299 is designed for children aged eight and older.

The companies describe Nova as the first embodied AI humanoid robot available in the US market for under $2,500. Embodied AI refers to artificial intelligence systems that operate a physical body, such as a robotic platform. The claim has not been independently verified.

Nova's capabilities and specifications

Nova stands 49.7cm tall and weighs just 2.8kg. The robot features 20 degrees of freedom—moving joints that enable it to walk, wave, and recover from being knocked over. It can also mount onto a detachable wheeled base for enhanced mobility.

The platform supports ROS 2, a widely adopted robotics software framework. Developers can purchase an additional software package for $390. FFR is also providing training through Nvidia's Isaac platform, which allows developers to simulate and teach robot behaviors before deploying them on actual hardware.

Rollout strategy and availability

The initial phase limits Nova to 100 units available only to invited developers and educational institutions. Of these, 20 units are ready to ship immediately. Broader developer access and a general consumer release are planned for later stages, though specific timelines have not been announced.

Nova Mini for younger audiences

Nova Mini weighs under 1kg and is engineered for younger users. The compact robot can walk, stand independently, and perform a forward roll. It supports block-based programming, making it accessible to beginners. FFR offers an accompanying $499 course comprising 16 live online classes, with purchasers receiving a voucher applicable toward a robot purchase.

Strategic context and acquisition

The robot launches follow FFR's agreement to acquire Faraday Future's robotics division in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $200 million. Following the transaction's expected close by the end of October, Faraday Future will hold roughly 65.7% ownership of FFR. The company previously operated under the name AIxCrypto Holdings until 30 September.

Faraday Future, traditionally recognized for its electric vehicle development, initiated its robotics expansion earlier this year. By the end of September, the robotics unit had already shipped 817 units.

The launch of FF Nova and FF Nova Mini marks an important step for FFR in bringing Physical AI from the laboratory to real-world applications

Jerry Wang, FFR's chief executive

Source: The Next Web