Meta reportedly finalized a deal exceeding $2 billion to acquire Manus, a Singapore-based artificial intelligence startup. The acquisition underscores Meta's intensified efforts to bolster its AI capabilities across its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.
While Meta declined to disclose the exact financial terms, sources familiar with the deal pegged the value at over $2 billion. Manus, which launched its first general-purpose AI agent earlier this year, operates on a subscription model, catering to users and businesses for research, coding, and various other tasks. Meta stated that Manus already serves millions of users globally and plans to scale the service, integrating Manus's general-purpose agents into its consumer and business products, including Meta AI.
This acquisition arrives as the race to dominate the AI agent market intensifies. AI agents, designed to automate tasks and provide personalized assistance, are poised to revolutionize how individuals and businesses interact with technology. Meta's move to acquire Manus positions it to compete more effectively with other tech giants investing heavily in AI, such as Google and Microsoft. The deal could potentially reshape the competitive landscape, accelerating the development and deployment of AI-powered services across various sectors.
Manus, despite being based in Singapore, has some Chinese roots. However, Meta has stated that there are "no continuing Chinese ownership interests in Manus AI". Xiao Hong, CEO of Manus, emphasized that joining Meta would provide the platform with a stronger foundation for sustainable growth, without altering its operational structure or decision-making processes. Manus will continue to operate and sell subscriptions through its existing app and website.
Looking ahead, the integration of Manus's AI agent technology into Meta's ecosystem could significantly enhance user engagement and drive new revenue streams. The acquisition also raises questions about data privacy and ethical considerations, as AI agents become increasingly integrated into daily life. Meta will need to address these concerns to maintain user trust and ensure responsible AI development. The deal is expected to close in the coming months, pending regulatory approvals.
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