Meta announced it will acquire Chinese-founded AI startup Manus to speed up the use of advanced artificial intelligence across its services. The company said the move is part of its wider AI expansion strategy.

The financial terms were not disclosed. However, a source said the deal values the Singapore-based firm between $2 billion and $3 billion. Manus did not respond to requests for comment. Manus gained global attention earlier this year after launching what it called the world’s first general AI agent. The system can make decisions and complete tasks on its own, needing far less guidance than chatbots like ChatGPT and DeepSeek.

The launch triggered strong reactions online, with many calling Manus “China’s next DeepSeek”. Chinese state television also praised the company. Months later, Manus shifted its headquarters from China to Singapore, reflecting concerns linked to rising U.S.-China tensions. The startup says its AI agent performs better than OpenAI’s DeepResearch. It also has a strategic partnership with ‘Alibaba’ to work together on AI models. Its products are not available in China.

Also Read: Russia plans nuclear power plant on Moon

Meta said it will operate and sell the Manus service and integrate it into both consumer and business products, including Meta AI. This shows how seriously Meta is pushing to lead in advanced AI. Big tech firms are racing to invest in AI through acquisitions and hiring. Earlier this year, Meta invested in ‘Scale AI’ in a deal that valued the company at $29 billion and brought in its young CEO, Alexandr Wang.

Manus is backed by its parent firm Beijing Butterfly Effect Technology. It raised $75 million this year at a valuation of about $500 million, led by U.S. venture firm Benchmark. Other investors include HSG, ZhenFund, and Tencent Holdings.