Finnish Startup NestAI Raises $115M to Build ‘Physical AI’ with Nokia Support
AI
Fintech
Fundraising
NestAI
Physical AI
Europe
Finland
Defense Applications
8
Sovereign Strategy
Media Hype
7/10
Real Impact
8/10
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We evaluate each news story based on its real impact versus its media hype to offer a clear and objective perspective.
AI Analysis:
While the European focus is driven by geopolitical factors, the substantial investment demonstrates the growing recognition of the strategic value of localized AI development, balancing current hype around large models with a pragmatic focus on tangible applications.
Article Summary
NestAI, a Finnish startup focused on developing ‘physical AI’ solutions, has raised a significant €100 million funding round, primarily backed by Finland’s sovereign fund, Tesi, and hardware giant Nokia. This investment will fuel the construction of ‘Europe’s leading physical AI lab,’ according to co-founder Peter Sarlin. The company’s strategy centers around utilizing large language models and related technology for applications in unmanned vehicles, autonomous operations, and command and control platforms. A key component of this effort is a partnership with Nokia, aimed at developing AI products with defense applications, driven by a desire to bolster European technological sovereignty, especially in light of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. Previously, NestAI was founded by Peter Sarlin, who previously sold AI startup Silo AI to AMD for $665 million. Sarlin’s involvement is further strengthened by his continued role as chairman of NestAI, alongside his ongoing position at AMD and support from his family office, PostScriptum. The funding round highlights a growing interest in ‘physical AI’ – a field that blends traditional AI research with real-world robotics applications, and points to a renewed focus on European technological independence.Key Points
- NestAI secured €100 million in funding from Tesi and Nokia to establish a ‘physical AI’ lab.
- The funding will primarily be used to develop AI products for defense applications and enhance European technological sovereignty.
- Peter Sarlin’s previous experience selling Silo AI to AMD and his continued role at AMD contribute to NestAI's credibility and strategic direction.