Meta to acquire Chinese AI startup Manus in push to expand advanced agent technology

Meta on Monday announced plans to Chinese acquire artificial intelligence startup Manus, signalling a further push by the technology company to deepen the use of advanced AI across its services amid intensifying industry competition.

Large technology firms, including Meta, have been stepping up investment in artificial intelligence through acquisitions and senior hires as competition accelerates. Earlier this year, the Facebook owner invested in Scale AI in a deal that valued the data-labelling company at $29 billion and brought in its 28-year-old chief executive, Alexandr Wang. Meta did not disclose the financial terms of its agreement with Manus.

Manus technology and integration plans

Singapore-based Manus develops a general-purpose AI agent designed to function as a digital employee, capable of carrying out tasks such as research and automation independently and with minimal prompts. Meta said it will operate and sell the Manus service and integrate it into both consumer and business products, including Meta AI.

Manus, which is part of Beijing Butterfly Effect Technology Ltd Co, launched its AI agent earlier this year and claimed its performance exceeds that of OpenAI’s AI agent, DeepResearch. The company has promoted its product by completing dozens of tasks for users on X at no cost.