What is "physical AI" according to the article?

Physical AI refers to the development of AI in technologies like robotics and autonomous vehicles, requiring hardware and specialized components.

Who invested $90 million in Ethernovia?

Ethernovia's $90 million Series B round was led by Maverick Silicon, an AI-focused fund from Maverick Capital.

Why are companies like Ethernovia receiving significant AI funding?

Companies like Ethernovia are crucial suppliers for "physical AI" technologies, providing the behind-the-scenes hardware and processors needed to make AI in robotics and autonomous vehicles a reality.

Home / Business and Economy / AI Funding Fuels "Physical AI" Revolution

AI Funding Fuels "Physical AI" Revolution

21 Jan

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Summary

Billions in AI funding are now benefiting robotics and autonomous vehicle suppliers.
Ethernovia, a processor maker for data collection, raised $90 million.
Maverick Capital launched its first sector-specific fund for AI investments.

AI Funding Fuels "Physical AI" Revolution

Investments in artificial intelligence are expanding beyond software to physical technologies such as robotics and autonomous vehicles, a sector now termed "physical AI." This shift means substantial capital is increasingly directed toward essential suppliers crucial for realizing these advancements.

Ethernovia, a San Jose-based company specializing in Ethernet-based processors, recently secured $90 million in a Series B funding round. These processors are vital for efficiently collecting and transmitting data from various sensors, particularly in complex systems like autonomous vehicles, to central processing units.

The recent funding round saw participation from existing backers like Porsche SE and Qualcomm Ventures. Notably, the round was spearheaded by Maverick Silicon, a new AI-focused fund established in 2024 by Maverick Capital. This marks Maverick Capital's inaugural sector-specific fund in its three-decade history, indicating a growing trend of investor focus on specialized AI companies.