Core Viewpoint - Tether has confirmed its participation in an $81 million funding round for the Italian AI startup Generative Bionics, which focuses on developing humanoid robots for industrial applications, aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing human risk in various sectors [2][4]. Group 1: Investment Details - The funding round totals $81 million and will be used for the development of humanoid robots designed for hazardous scenarios in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail [2]. - Tether's investment is part of a broader strategy to focus on AI and robotics, indicating a long-term commitment to the smart technology sector [4][20]. Group 2: Company Background - Generative Bionics was founded in 2024, with its technology rooted in research from the Italian Institute of Technology, which has developed over 60 humanoid robot prototypes in the past two decades [4]. - The company is led by CEO Daniele Pucci, who has a background in AI and robotics, and has integrated a team of 70 engineers from the Italian Institute of Technology to commercialize robotic solutions [7][11]. Group 3: Future Plans - Generative Bionics plans to deploy its first production-ready humanoid robot systems by early 2026, targeting several key industries for implementation [5][14]. - The company aims to introduce its first complete humanoid robot at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, emphasizing its mission to enhance human capabilities through collaboration with intelligent robots [11]. Group 4: Tether's AI Investment Strategy - Tether's investment strategy includes five key sectors: finance, energy, data, education, and evolution, with the investment in Generative Bionics falling under the evolution category [18]. - Recent investments by Tether in the AI sector also include potential investments in the German AI robotics startup Neura and partnerships for developing a global computing network for AI [20].