Manus: China creates world’s first fully autonomous AI agent

The Chinese AI startup Monica.im created Manus, the world’s first fully autonomous AI agent. In other words, this AI system can start tasks by itself without humans guiding it first. 

For example, provide a zip file of resumes, and it will sift through each one to provide a fully optimized hiring decision.

READ: Should you use China’s trending AI chatbot, DeepSeek?

The best part is it shows you its process in real time with its “Manus’ Computer” window. As a result, it’s the closest to having a fully automated assistant that rivals human counterparts. 

China shakes the AI space again with Manus

The demo video above shows what Manus can do. Aside from resume screening, it can perform property research and stock analysis. 

Manus can look at several online property listings and check their locations on a map. Also, it can read graphs and financial reports and compile them into comprehensive reports.

More importantly, you get to see this AI agent perform these tasks in real-time. It’s like it’s a human showing you its computer as it researches and writes a report.

Forbes compares it to an “invisible worker” who can open browser tabs, fill out forms, write emails, code software, and make decisions. 

“Except unlike you, it never gets tired,” the news outlet says.

Manus’ power comes from its multi-agent architecture, unlike other AI competitors that rely on only a single neural network.

This Chinese AI works like a “boss” overseeing a team of specialized sub-agents. When it receives a task, it divides the problem into manageable parts. 

Then, Manus assigns them to the sub-agents and monitors their progress. As a result, this executive agent can perform tasks that typically require multiple AI tools. 

Another important component is its cloud-based asynchronous operation. Manus runs tasks in the background, only alerting users once it has results ready.

It’s like a hyper-efficient employee who will perform tasks excellently without constant supervision.

Conversely, most AI assistants need a user’s active engagement. 

It’s only been two months since China shook the AI world with DeepSeek. It’s an AI chatbot that matches the performance of prominent AI like ChatGPT.

It’s an open-source model, meaning people can use the bot for free and run it offline. In response, several AI stocks have lost value as investors reconsidered their investments.

Now, it seems China will disrupt the tech space again with Manus.