Meta has completed the acquisition of artificial intelligence start-up Manus in a deal reported to be worth more than £2 billion, underlining the company’s growing focus on expanding its AI capabilities. The purchase is one of Meta’s largest investments in artificial intelligence and reflects the intense competition among major technology firms to secure cutting-edge tools and talent.
Manus has attracted attention for developing autonomous AI agents capable of completing complex, multi-step tasks such as market research, data analysis, software development and business process automation with minimal human input. Since launching its core technology, the start-up has experienced rapid growth and built a strong reputation within the AI industry.
Although Meta has not officially confirmed the final value of the deal, reports suggest the total cost could rise to around £3 billion. Meta plans to integrate Manus’s technology into its existing AI products while continuing to develop the start-up’s own services. The Manus workforce, including senior executives, will join Meta, strengthening the company’s expertise in advanced artificial intelligence.
The acquisition fits into Meta’s broader strategy to compete with rivals such as Google and OpenAI, and to expand AI features across platforms including Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Analysts believe the deal could help Meta play a leading role in the next phase of AI development.
Author: Kieran Seymour