Meta Platforms is acquiring Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup, for a reported $2 billion, according to the Wall Street Journal. The acquisition underscores Meta's aggressive push into the artificial intelligence space, a strategic priority for CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The deal comes after Manus, which launched last spring, quickly gained prominence in Silicon Valley. The company's AI agent, demonstrated in a viral video, showcased capabilities including screening job candidates, planning vacations, and analyzing stock portfolios. Manus claimed its technology outperformed OpenAI's Deep Research, attracting significant investor interest. In April 2025, Benchmark led a $75 million funding round, valuing Manus at $500 million post-money, with Benchmark general partner Chetan Puttagunta joining the startup's board. Prior to that, Chinese media reported that Tencent, ZhenFund, and HSG (formerly Sequoia China) invested $10 million. Manus recently announced it had acquired millions of users and was generating over $100 million in annual recurring revenue.
The acquisition of Manus highlights the intense competition among tech giants for AI talent and technology. Meta's $2 billion investment reflects the perceived value of Manus's AI agent and its potential to enhance Meta's existing AI capabilities. This move positions Meta to better compete with rivals like Google and Microsoft, who are also heavily investing in AI. The acquisition may also signal a shift in Meta's AI strategy, potentially leading to the integration of Manus's technology into its social media platforms and metaverse initiatives.
Manus's rapid ascent was fueled by its focus on developing a versatile AI agent capable of performing a wide range of tasks. The company's technology leverages advanced machine learning algorithms to automate complex processes, promising increased efficiency and productivity for its users. The startup's ability to attract both venture capital and a large user base within a short period demonstrates the strong demand for AI-powered solutions in the market.
Looking ahead, the integration of Manus into Meta is expected to accelerate the development and deployment of AI-driven features across Meta's product ecosystem. The acquisition could also lead to further consolidation in the AI industry, as larger companies seek to acquire promising startups to bolster their AI capabilities. The long-term impact of this acquisition will depend on Meta's ability to successfully integrate Manus's technology and talent, and to leverage its AI capabilities to drive innovation and growth.
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