Agility goes public as humanoid robot firm focuses on industrial deployment

Agility, a company specializing in humanoid robots, is transitioning to a publicly traded entity via a SPAC merger, aiming to raise $465 million from private and retail investors. The company, spun out of Oregon State University in 2015, has deployed its Digit robots with nine industrial clients, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada and GXO, primarily for moving heavy totes. CEO Peggy Johnson noted that Agility's focus remains on repetitive manual tasks where human labor is scarce. While the company reported a loss of $362 million in the first half of 2026, it has secured $300 million in planned contracts for its next-generation model, Digit 5. Johnson stated that Digit 5 can operate safely around humans, a key factor in the decision to go public. Digit 5 is slated for demonstration at CES 2027 and will be widely available by the end of that year. Cofounder and CTO Johnathan Hurst emphasized the company's practical field experience, noting that while the current model excels at tasks like lifting 50-pound objects, it still lacks complex manipulation capabilities. Johnson added that the capital infusion will cover current needs but may not ensure self-sustainability, while the company plans to produce up to 10,000 units annually.