AI cloud firm Nscale commits compute worth $3.5 billion for Figure's robotics ambitions

• Initial GPU deployment is scheduled for the second half of 2027 in Barstow, Texas, with Nscale competing against firms like CoreWeave and Nebius
• Nscale plans to scale its computing investment from $3.5 billion initially to more than $6 billion, potentially deploying up to 100,000 Nvidia chips for Figure
• The companies will explore using humanoid robots to scale Nscale's supply chain operations, with Nscale also becoming a Figure investor

Summary

AI cloud infrastructure provider Nscale announced a multi-year partnership with humanoid robotics firm Figure on September 3, committing $3.5 billion in compute resources to support the development of Figure's AI models and robotic systems.

Key Deal Terms:

• Initial commitment: $3.5 billion in compute resources
• Planned scaling: Over $6 billion total investment
• GPU deployment: Up to 100,000 Nvidia chips
• Timeline: Initial GPUs targeted for deployment in second half of 2027
• Location: Barstow, Texas

Strategic Elements:

Nscale will become a Figure shareholder as part of the arrangement. Beyond compute provision, the companies plan to explore integrating humanoid robots into Nscale's supply chain operations, suggesting practical applications for Figure's robotics technology within the partnership itself.

Market Context:

Nscale operates in the competitive AI cloud infrastructure space alongside rivals CoreWeave and Nebius. This substantial commitment underscores the growing capital requirements for developing advanced AI and robotics systems, particularly humanoid robots that require significant computational power for training and operation.

The partnership represents a notable convergence of AI infrastructure and robotics development, with Nscale's massive compute investment positioning Figure to scale its humanoid robot capabilities. The 2027 deployment timeline indicates this is a long-term strategic initiative rather than an immediate operational arrangement.

The deal highlights increasing private sector investment in humanoid robotics and the critical role of specialized computing infrastructure in advancing AI-powered physical automation technologies.