A group of Chinese software engineers has developed what they claim to be the “world’s first” fully autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) agent, named Manus. Unlike existing AI systems such as ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, or Grok— which all require human input—Manus can perform complex tasks independently, making proactive decisions and taking actions without waiting for human guidance. This marks a significant leap forward in AI technology.
Manus operates in a way that sets it apart from conventional AI systems. While traditional AIs rely on user instructions to perform tasks, Manus can autonomously assess situations and carry out multi-step workflows. For example, if asked to “Find me an apartment,” Manus doesn’t just search through listings. It evaluates factors like crime rates, weather patterns, and market trends to offer tailored recommendations, all without any human intervention.
One of the key innovations is that Manus doesn’t depend on a single AI model. Instead, it functions like an executive overseeing a team of specialized sub-agents. These sub-agents handle specific tasks, enabling Manus to address complex problems more efficiently and accurately. Additionally, Manus works asynchronously, completing tasks in the background and notifying users only once the results are ready, reducing the need for continuous human supervision.
This shift from human-guided to fully independent AI opens up exciting possibilities but also raises concerns about the future of employment and accountability. Unlike traditional AIs that require human input to function, Manus has the capability to replace human labor in various sectors.
Beyond its technical novelty, Manus holds immense potential for practical use. For example, in recruitment, Manus could autonomously analyze resumes, assess job market trends, and make hiring decisions, complete with in-depth reports and recommendations. In software development, Manus could independently design, build, and deploy a professional website, even resolving hosting issues and scraping relevant data from social media— all without human oversight.
Manus comes just over a year after the release of DeepSeek, an AI developed in China that was widely seen as a significant milestone in the country’s AI ambitions. The arrival of Manus challenges the prevailing notion that the U.S. is the uncontested leader in advanced AI research. It suggests that China has not only caught up but might have surpassed other nations in developing truly autonomous AI agents.
While Manus is a breakthrough for its creators, it could also have profound implications for the future of work and technological governance. The ability of Manus to replace human workers rather than just assist them raises concerns about mass unemployment. More troubling are the ethical and regulatory challenges of an AI that can make decisions and act independently. Who is responsible if Manus makes a costly mistake? Current regulatory frameworks are ill-equipped to handle such fully autonomous systems.
Historically, companies in Silicon Valley have dominated the global AI race, focusing on incremental advancements in the field. However, Manus represents a shift in the competitive landscape, with China positioning itself as a leader in autonomous AI technology. As AI systems like Manus become more capable, there is growing concern that China may gain a substantial advantage in industries powered by AI, from recruitment to software development, and beyond.
As Manus and other autonomous AIs evolve, the world will face tough questions about their role in society, ethics, and the future of human labor. The era of autonomous AI agents may be closer than we think, and how governments, industries, and workers respond will shape the next chapter in AI’s development.
By Impact Lab
