BREAKING: Meta has just announced its acquisition of the Chinese-founded AI startup Manus for over $2 billion, marking one of the most significant AI purchases of 2023. This acquisition highlights Meta’s aggressive push into the AI sector, positioning itself at the forefront of technological advancements.
Manus, which emerged as a key player in the AI landscape, gained attention earlier this year for introducing its groundbreaking “general” AI agent that autonomously executes tasks such as résumé screening and stock analysis. Founded in China and headquartered in Singapore since mid-2025, Manus has rapidly expanded its capabilities and revenue.
UPDATE: Manus reported exceeding $100 million in annual recurring revenue, with a total revenue run rate surpassing $125 million. This financial momentum follows a $75 million funding round led by Benchmark in April 2023, valuing the company at approximately $500 million.
According to Meta, the acquisition will not disrupt Manus’s existing operations or its subscription service. Manus will continue to function as a standalone product while integrating its cutting-edge technology into Meta’s broader AI offerings. In a statement, Manus CEO Xiao Hong emphasized that joining Meta will strengthen their foundation without altering Manus’s operational methods.
The founding team includes co-founder Ji Yichao, known for his technical expertise and leadership in developing Manus’s infrastructure. The team is bolstered by Zhang Tao, who previously held significant product roles at ByteDance and Tencent.
However, the acquisition raises questions about Manus’s ties to China. Sen. John Cornyn voiced concerns regarding U.S. investments in companies associated with China amid rising geopolitical tensions. In response, a Meta spokesperson confirmed that the acquisition will fully sever Manus’s remaining Chinese ownership interests and operations, assuring customers of data privacy and security.
As this deal unfolds, it is set to reshape the landscape of AI technology and impact how these innovations are deployed across Meta’s platforms. Stay tuned for updates on how this acquisition could redefine Meta’s approach to AI and its implications for the tech industry at large.
