Meta buys AI startup Manus in a landmark deal that highlights the tech giant’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence. The acquisition, reportedly valued at more than $2 billion, marks one of Meta’s largest investments in AI to date and signals its determination to compete with rivals such as OpenAI and Google in the race for next-generation AI systems.
The company confirmed it will operate and sell the Manus service while integrating its technology into Meta’s broader AI ecosystem, including its Meta AI chatbot. Although financial terms were not officially disclosed, sources familiar with the deal say it ranks among Meta’s biggest acquisitions, behind only WhatsApp and its recent stake in Scale AI.
Manus is known for building highly capable autonomous AI agents that can perform complex tasks such as market research, coding, data analysis, and workflow automation. These tools are already used by businesses worldwide, with subscription plans starting at around $20 per month. The platform’s ability to operate with minimal human input has made it one of the most talked-about AI products in recent years.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence as part of his long-term vision to create what he calls “personal superintelligence.” The acquisition of Manus fits squarely into this strategy, strengthening Meta’s AI stack and expanding its ability to offer advanced AI-powered services to consumers and enterprises alike.
Industry observers say the deal reflects Meta’s urgency to close the gap with competitors. OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini have gained massive traction, while Meta has been working to differentiate itself through open models and practical AI tools integrated into social and business platforms. Adding Manus gives Meta access to a mature AI agent platform with real-world adoption.
The deal also carries geopolitical significance. Manus has roots in China through its parent company, Butterfly Effect, and its rise had already drawn attention from regulators and policymakers. The startup had previously raised funds from US venture firm Benchmark, a move that stirred debate in Washington over American investment in Chinese-linked AI companies.
Following regulatory scrutiny, the Manus team relocated to Singapore, where it will remain headquartered even after the acquisition. Meta confirmed that the company’s roughly 100 employees will continue working from there, with plans to expand hiring across Asia. Meta’s AI chief Alexandr Wang also confirmed that Singapore would become a key hub for future AI recruitment.
The acquisition has sparked mixed reactions in China. Some industry leaders praised the deal as a sign of global recognition for Chinese-founded AI talent. Others expressed concern that valuable innovation is being lost to foreign companies. One prominent investor described the deal as a warning that China risks losing its most promising AI entrepreneurs if it fails to create a supportive ecosystem.
From Meta’s perspective, the acquisition comes at a critical time. Zuckerberg is under increasing pressure to justify the company’s massive AI spending, which has surged into the tens of billions of dollars. Investors want clearer signs that AI can drive revenue growth, especially as Meta explores monetization strategies such as premium AI subscriptions and enterprise tools.
The company has already begun testing paid features for Meta AI, including content creation, video generation, and productivity tools. Integrating Manus’ autonomous agent technology could significantly accelerate these plans, enabling AI assistants that can handle multi-step tasks with minimal user input.
Despite the enthusiasm, the deal is not without controversy. Some US lawmakers are expected to scrutinize the acquisition due to its cross-border nature and the growing importance of AI in national security. At the same time, Chinese media outlets have criticized the sale, calling it another example of domestic innovation flowing overseas.
Manus CEO Xiao Hong welcomed the acquisition, stating that joining Meta would provide the resources needed to scale the platform globally while preserving its technical direction. He emphasized that Manus would continue operating as before, with no changes to its core product vision.
Analysts believe the acquisition could reshape the competitive landscape of AI agents. While many companies are still experimenting with chat-based assistants, Manus has focused on building systems that can independently complete tasks, manage workflows, and deliver measurable business outcomes. This capability aligns closely with Meta’s goal of embedding AI into everyday digital experiences.
As the AI race intensifies, Meta’s acquisition of Manus underscores a broader industry trend: large tech firms are no longer just building models in-house, but acquiring specialized startups to accelerate innovation. The move also highlights how AI development is becoming increasingly global, complex, and politically sensitive.
With billions already invested and more deals likely on the horizon, Meta’s bet on Manus could prove to be a defining moment in its AI journey. Whether it delivers the competitive edge Zuckerberg is seeking will become clearer as the company rolls out new AI-powered products in the months ahead.
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