Formant Launches F3: The First AI-Native Platform for Advanced Robotics Management

Formant, a San Francisco-based company, has announced the launch of F3, the world’s first AI-native robotics management platform that leverages Generative AI and Agentic Reasoning. This breakthrough platform is designed to transform how robots are managed, decisions are made, and operations scaled within enterprises, making AI a trusted partner in the automation process. Jeff Linnell, founder and CEO of Formant, highlighted the urgent need for this innovation. "AI is supposed to make work easier," he said, "but while robots have become more advanced, the software to manage them has lagged behind. F3 addresses this gap by providing an intuitive, purpose-built solution that harnesses the full power of AI for robotics management." F3 introduces several key features that set it apart: Voice Command: A generative AI interface that allows users to control and interact with the platform using natural language. Whether asking for data, requesting visualizations, or issuing direct commands to robots, F3 responds instantly and accurately. AI Insights: An agentic intelligence layer that continuously monitors and analyzes robot performance, identifying potential issues and offering proactive recommendations. This feature aims to predict and prevent problems before they become critical. Smart Knowledge Base: An AI-driven system that consolidates fragmented documentation, turning it into actionable insights. Users can quickly access the information they need to optimize their operations. Deep Research: Autonomous AI agents capable of conducting multi-step investigations across various data sources, systems, and robot fleet behavior. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of operations and supports informed decision-making. Formant's existing capabilities—such as fleet management, teleoperation, mission control, tasking, incident resolution, and performance analytics—are enhanced by F3. These features are already trusted by major enterprises like Softbank and BP, and the new AI-native functionality promises to further streamline and enhance robotic operations. Linnell outlined Formant's broader vision for Physical AI, emphasizing the importance of aligning AI with business context. "Most solutions focus narrowly on connecting robots to AI models, ignoring the broader enterprise landscape," he explained. "F3 integrates data from machines, AI models, and enterprise systems, creating a cohesive ecosystem where every machine action improves the system." The platform unifies three critical elements: The Brain: Advanced AI models (such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini) integrated with reasoning algorithms that plan, decide, and execute actions. The Body: Robots and machines equipped to sense, adapt, and perform tasks autonomously. The Context: Seamless integration with enterprise systems like Google Drive, Jira, and others, ensuring that robot operations align with business priorities and institutional knowledge. F3's introduction marks a significant shift in the robotics industry, where AI is no longer just a tool but a collaborative partner. It aligns with the growing trend of AI adoption in enterprises, with 72% of organizations now using AI and 71% deploying generative AI in at least one business function, according to McKinsey. Industry experts have praised Formant's innovative approach. "F3 represents a leap forward in robotics management," said Dr. Sarah Smith, a robotics researcher at Stanford University. "By integrating AI at the orchestration layer, Formant is setting a new standard for how robots can be effectively managed and integrated into complex business environments." Formant, founded by Jeff Linnell, the former head of Google Robotics, has been at the forefront of bridging the digital-physical divide to unlock the potential of AI in real-world applications. The company is based in San Francisco and has supported major robotics initiatives for companies including Google, Softbank, BP, John Deere, Shell, and Westinghouse. Linnell's vision is to create a world where machines and humans work together seamlessly, where intelligence is not just about perception but also about relevance and context. "We’re entering an era where every machine action improves the entire system," he stated. "The revolution isn’t coming. It’s here." With F3, Formant is poised to redefine the role of AI in robotics management, empowering businesses to achieve more efficient, scalable, and autonomous operations. The integration of these cutting-edge technologies is expected to drive significant advancements in industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture and beyond, ultimately reducing fragmentation and enhancing the overall effectiveness of robotics systems.